On a cold, wet miserable Saturday 6th July, Leyton Orient Walking FC over 50s Whites resumed their league program. Due to lack of availability this was (with a couple of exceptions) an aging team, probably the oldest Over 50’s team in Essex League history. Still experience can’t be beaten!!

The first game was against Eastwood Falcons. The O’s had Brunt in goal, Tim Conlan at the back, a midfield three of Birnbaum, Dunn and Edwards, with Chris Conlan up front. Eastwood were quickly into their stride and had the majority of the play. Their movement and passing was of a high standard. A wayward pass presented Eastwood with a great opportunity to take the lead but fortunately for the O’s the shot struck a post and rebounded to safety. Orient were again guilty of being wasteful in possession and this time Eastwood struck the bar. Eventually, just before the interval, Eastwood deservedly took the lead when a fierce shot from the left eluded Brunt in goal. Harden, making his competitive debut and Baker joined proceedings in the second half. The O’s fought hard to get back into the game but created few scoring opportunities. Eastwood continued to play good football and deservedly won the game. Final score: Leyton Orient 0 v 1 Eastwood Falcons.

Orient’s next opponents were Chelmsford. This was an even contest with both sides playing neat football but scoring opportunities were few and far between and any efforts on target were dealt with comfortably by both keepers. The first half ended goalless. Unfortunately Brunt dislocated a finger and was replaced in goal by Tim Conlan. In the second half it continued to be an even contest. The O’s sensed an opportunity when an opposition player received a blue card. However, after going a man down Chelmsford had their best spell and retained possession expertly. Rather than taking advantage of the situation a lack of concentration allowed a Chelmsford player a clear run on goal and he produced a smart finish to put Chelmsford one up. Chelmsford continued to play intelligent football, their passing and movement was excellent and only a tremendous save by Tim Colman prevented them scoring a second goal. Final score: Leyton Orient 0 v 1 Chelmsford City.

The final game was against Billericay. The O’s produced their best football of the day. The passing and movement were good but for all the good approach work few chances were created by either side and the game ended scoreless. Final score: Leyton Orient 0 v 0 Billericay Town.

Manager Stevenson commented after play, “In awful playing conditions Orient performed creditably on the day. Dunn controlled the midfield ably supported by Birnbaum, Edwards and Baker. Chris Conlan held up play well and had a couple of decent efforts on goal. A special mention for Harden, who on his first appearance performed admirably, linking up play with some neat touches. A special thanks to Tim Conlan for taking up the goalkeeping duties. Bravely (or stupidly) electing to play without gloves. Despite this Tim produced a number of excellent, if unorthodox, saves. One point achieved on the day is obviously a disappointing outcome but, as with a lot of the men’s teams this season, goal scoring is a major problem. It was good to see Colin Brunt at the Dave Knight Cup on Sunday and we hope to see him playing again soon.”

Leyton Orient squad: Colin Brunt (Gk), Tim Conlan, Chris Conlan, Maurice Birnbaum (Cpt), Simon Baker, Stevie Dunn, Jason Edwards, Mark Harden, Phil Stevenson.

Goal scorers: .

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Image used © 2024 Trevor Ridley

Location

Salerno Way, Chelmsford CM1 2EH, UK