A single goal was just enough to secure three points for East London Men this weekend against visiting Chelmsford

A single goal was just enough to secure three points for East London Men this weekend against visiting Chelmsford.

Despite controlling the game from the start, East London were unable to capitalise on a string of good opportunities in the first half.

The breakthrough came via a penalty flick after a Chelmsford player's foot stopped Kevin Taylors initial effort from crossing the line midway through the second half. Lee Tickner (pictured left) converted, coolly slotting the ball low into the Chelmsford goal.

East London continued to look the more likely to score and thanks to another strong performance from the Londoner's defence the opposition's forwards posed little threat from open play.

But further squandered goal-scoring opportunities made it a nervous finish with East London needing to successfully defend several late penalty corners to secure the win.

The ladies first XI played away this week against a strong Upminster side and got the best possible start when they scored in the first minute, a textbook goal courtesy of Martje Langerwerf.

Upminster recovered though and following chances at either end they drew level just before half time.

In the second half Upminster came out strong and initially had a number of chances on goal.

However, the East London defence stood firm, whilst the attackers punished the home side on the break, first with a goal from Lucy Bigham followed by a second from Langerwerf.

With the score 3-1 and five minutes to go, Upminster scored again via a penalty flick.

East London still came away with the three points they deserved, which puts them in a strong position at the top of Essex Division One.

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