Match photo's

Thurrock cruised to an easy victory against unbeaten Maidenhead at York Road on Saturday. From the first minute Thurrock looked in control and in the end it was a surprise to see only a three goal winning margin. With less than two minutes on the clock Kris Lee’s excellent cross narrowly failed to be turned in by Akurang. Thurrock midfield dynamos Heffer and Kirby were winning every tackle and a ball by Heffer over the defence was lobbed over the keeper by Kris Lee only for a Maidenhead defender to get back and clear off the line. Thurrock continued to pressure but seemed to be unable to create any meaningful chances.

 In the 24^th minute Akurang’s cross only needed a toe poke from Lee but the ball skidded just past him. A minute later Hodges wasted a golden chance. A long ball over the static defence left Hodges with the freedom of York Road but his shot was saved by the keepers foot. Ten minutes later he made amends with the first goal. Heffer’s through ball left Hodges in acres of space and he drilled into the far corner. Five minutes later the game was over. Collis’ pinpoint corner was headed towards goal by McFarlane and Akurang was left with simplest of tasks to nod home.

A minute into the second half it was nearly three. Lee was sent through but was once again denied by a smart save. Three minutes later Thurrock had a scare but the dependable Gothard made a comfortable save from a goal wards header. The game was wrapped up on 52 when Akurang beat two defenders and embarrassed the keeper by beating him from a tight angle on his near post. Akurang nearly completed a hat trick but his audacious chip flew just over. The last twenty minutes saw Thurrock showing the gulf between the sides by keeping hold of the ball and not allowing Maidenhead to play.

          Thurrock now go into Monday’s game at home to Bognor knowing a win will put them top.

Man of the Match : Steve Heffer