Title chasers play out 1-1 stalemate

JIMMY GREAVES could not inspire Witham Town to victory as they fought out a 1-1 stalemate with Bethnal Green United.

Both teams went all out for victory in a thrilling Essex Senior League encounter at Mile End Stadium with Isaac Aubynn’s first half goal cancelled out in the second period, before man of the match Abraham Mahmood saved a late Witham penalty.

Gardner was delighted with the performance of his side and the experience of pitting his wits against one of English football’s greats.

“It was a fantastic game between two teams who played attractive football. I’m over the moon with how we played,” the boss said.

“It was great coming up against a legend like Jimmy Greaves in the other dugout. For a man of 71, he really was passionate out there, having a go at the referee and really wanted his side to win.

“He is a really humble bloke and was more then happy having photos taken and talking to people there.”

Greaves’ Witham side made a quick start to the match, but it was United who took the lead against the run of play when Michael Begg and Kadir Jama combined to set up Isaac Aubynn after 25 minutes.

United started the second half slowly and the Greens were indebted to stopper Mahmood who pulled off an excellent save after 60 minutes, before substitute Marlon Campbell missed a golden chance to extend his side’s lead.

With 20 minutes left Witham levelled when United fell asleep from a free kick and an unmarked defender deflected past Mahmood and into the net.

The visitors had a golden chance to claim the win with eight minutes left, but Mahmood was again the hero diving to his left to deny Town from the spot after Joel Gallimore fouled in the box.

It was then United’s turn to snatch the three points with two minutes left but Michael Begg could only smash an effort over the bar from the edge of the area.

“I think 3-3 would have been a fair result,” Gardner said.

“We are still well-placed in the league and it really tight up there. Stanstead have games in hand but it will be interesting to see how they get on playing two or three games a week.”