On a bright, sunny Saturday 14th June morning, Leyton Orient Walking FC over 50s Whites were hoping to emulate the over 50s Reds and reach the League Cup final day.

The first opponents were Concord Rangers Yellow, a Division One side. Orient lined up with Akhtar in goal, Rohm at the back, a midfield three off Newman, Franklin and Edwards. The O’s started brightly and retained possession well. The first half was even but Concord All Stars scored an excellent opening goal. Dooley replaced Edwards at half time. In the second half Concord’s superiority shone through and they ran out worthy winners. Final score: Leyton Orient Whites 0 v 3 Concord Rangers Yellow.

Next up were Cheshunt, who are top of Division Two, the same division Orient White’s play in. The first half was the O’s best display of the morning. An excellent through ball from Rohm found Franklin on the edge of the box who rifled an unstoppable shot into the far corner. Both sides were on a knife edge regarding running offences and it was Cheshunt who conceded the inevitable penalty which was expertly converted by Franklin. Newman replaced Dooley at half time. Cheshunt ramped up the pressure in an attempt to get back in the game. A fourth running offence gave them the opportunity to reduce arrears from the spot. This they achieved. Now it was backs to the wall for the O’s but a series of outstanding saves by Akhtar ensured Orient escaped with an important victory. Final score: Cheshunt 1 v 2 Leyton Orient Whites (Franklin 2).

The final game was against Concord Rangers Blue. Victory would all but guarantee the O’s a spot on finals day. Unfortunately this was Orient’s worst half of the day. Sloppy from the outset the O’s quickly conceded two poor goals. Despite being outplayed Orient had a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty for four running offenses. Unfortunately Franklin’s effort was saved. Immediately after, more disastrous defending and Concord added a third goal. Stevenson and Edwards replaced Dooley and Newman at the interval. The game meandered on to its forgone conclusion with Concord adding a fourth goal late on. Final score: Leyton Orient Whites 0 v 4 Concord Rangers Blue.

Following these tough matches player/manager Phil Stevenson said, “This was a series of creditable performances against two sides from higher divisions and the leaders in our own division. The squad was under strength but everyone tried their best and we achieved one notable victory.”

Leyton Orient 50s White squad: Noveed Akhtar (Gk), Paul Franklin (Cpt), Neil Burns, Paul Newman, Adam Rohm, Jason Edwards, Vince Dooley, Phil Stevenson (player/manager).

Goalscorers: Franklin 2.

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