Ryman Premier
East Thurrock 0 v 0 Wingate and Finchley
EAST Thurrock rued a number of missed chances and a disallowed goal but in the end a draw was probably a fair result as these two Ryman Premier sides cancelled each other out.
Before the game Rocks, whose already small squad was depleted by injuries to several players, might well have taken a point but on the balance of play, particularly in second half may feel it was two points lost rather than one gained.
One of few talking points on a low key afternoon was the replacement at half time of an injured assistant by East Thurrock secretary Neil Speight who had little to do though as his side’s backline dropped deep to defend and ruled out the opportunity for any close offside calls.
Ironically it was at the other end where there was controversy, with a ’goal’ by Simon Peddie after a well-worked set piece move from a corner ruled out by the raised flag of the ‘proper’ assistant!. Rocks were disappointed with the decision and to most in the ground it looked a very marginal call.
Earlier there had been few chances in the first half, the best fro Rocks coming when Wingate keeper Bobby Smith had to go full length to keep out a fierce drive from Lewis Smith, who was set up by an exquisite crossfield ball from Ben Wood. The keeper could only parry the ball but no-one in an amber and black shirt reacted to a possible tap in.
At the other end, on 39 minutes, the pace of Earl Oliyide took him to the by-line and he cut back a perfect cross into the path of Rob Laney but he directed his header wide when it seemed he must score.
After a delayed half time because of the switch of officials, Wingate and Finchley came out of the blocks quickly and Rob Laney’s shot was pushed out by David Hughes and eventually cleared away after a scramble
Peddie’s disallowed effort capped a period of Rocks pressure during which Javlon Campbell perhaps should have done better after bursting through the backline, while a shot from Mitchell Gilbey was scrambled away by a packed visiting defence.
Smith was the main threat for the hosts, driving his side forward and having several efforts at goal. At the other end Wingate had few clear chances, though Lacey did conjure up a spectacular overhead strike that flew over the bar.
In the end, the deadlock remained and the points were shared, with East Thurrock retaining their unbeaten run at the start of the season and they are still to concede a goal. Tuesday’s match at big spenders and joint league leaders Margate will test both those records!
