Canvey 3-2 Hornchurch

[The Great Eckscape]

In the programme I looked back over the last time we played Hornchurch in the Ryman Prem. That day we came from 2-0 down to win 3-2, a real spirited comeback.

 

Last night's game had the same scoreline and the same feel to the match, with our never say die attitude once again pulling us through as it did against Tonbridge.

 

We were poor in the first half, and our marking from set pieces was almost non existent at times. Danny Curran worked hard up top and really got into the Hornchurch defence, but unfortunately I couldn't see the goal coming. In fact, had the scoreline been 2-0 or 3-0 to them, I would not have complained.

 

However, we looked much more dangerous in the second half, and after an initial scare I think we were well in control.

 

The turning point was undoubtedly the double substitution. Leon Antoine caused them so many problems it was unreal. The first goal came about from him getting in their keeper's face (legally) and making life hard for him. Crow was then on hand to slot the ball home.

 

Antoine then got a goal himself, and how happy did he look with that!!

 

However, from that massive high, we were then brought back down to earth instantly with a very dubious penalty from what I have been told. When that hit the net, you just had the feeling that it wasn't going to be our night.

 

The lads obviously didn't believe this, and kept right at them. Jay's goal was quality. I remember seeing Frank Curley going mental shouting for someone to mark Jay as he was dealing with Antoine. No one did, and I would love to know what was going through Curley's mind as the ball hit the net!

 

The last 10 minutes were always going to be a bit backs to the wall, and how I wish Jay could have put the game to bed when he went clear.

 

The final whistle was one of the sweetest I have ever heard, to seal what was a victory that in my mind confirms that we belong in the top half of the Ryman Premier League.

[urchinman1961]

to say we were generous at the back in the second half is an understatement but u deserved your win all the same good to see some canvey faces again look forward to seein u at the bridge and hopefully we will be less generous

[gavin]

What a FANTASTIC game just like the old days if we entertain

like that every week i can see a few lost sheep returning.For

me at home we should allways play 4-4-2 so we can really pressure the opposition.But for the harder away games i can understand the 4-5-1 where packing the midfield and grinding a

result out is the order of the day.

 

Great to see antoine back hes a real handfull not to sure about the currans although dannys not match fit.Dave lees delivery was class as usual but id like to see him do a bit more of the ugly stuff cant see where to accomadate him in a 4-4-2 as he seems to have a completely free role in the 4-5-1.Gabbs hasnt reached the heights of last year but ryman prem is a massive step up im sure he will find his feet.Gordon was as robust and dogged as allways with craig looking great when he moved to the left but i think his best position is left back.Ryan oliva was shaky to say the least and looks to suffer from fatigue as he seems very lethargic alot of the time.Moore was a mountain yet again his experience/leadership is key as was proven

by his absence in the FA cup debacle.Patten was class personified although he seemed to tire in the latter stages hes been so consistent and a superb signing who had heard of him before he signed for us??? Westy had an assured return his versatility will be crucial and mel was the pro that he is.What great start if only the season finished now wed be in the play#-offs!!

[Matt H]

What a difference switching to 4-4-2 at half-time made!

 

I have to agree with a lot of the points Gavin has made.

 

I can understand Danny Curran not being match fit and it was good for him to get an hour under his belt. Also pleased to see Gab playing in the middle where he can work his magic.

 

Leon Gordon was quality up front and on the right and got my man of the match nomination. Tarks worked hard on the right and was supported by Westy really well - We look really shored up on that side now.

 

Antoine caused all kinds of problems. He blocked the goalkeper for Crow's goal. Not a soul moved for his goal and he was the target when Jay nicked in to pick up his one.

 

Hornchurch seemed to have a confidence issue at the back. Neither the Goalkeeper nor the defenders seemed to understand one another. E.g. Brightly fumbled the ball for Jay's goal and not one Hornchurch player moved to pick up Antoine or block his goal.

 

It's good to see that with key players missing, we can still pick up a result. Lets start as we mean to go on after our last two defeats.

[JAY]

Tell you what though any neutral or any fans of both sides will agree that this game was worth the admission fee

[Eastside Urchin]

to be fair to the defence,we have two young full backs,our usual right back has been injured all season.

We have lost 2 centre backs,1 to arsenal to be a physio and another to old age and had one out suspended.I think with the usual back four we would of dealt with at least two of your goals,but hey thats football!