Over 65 League Division 2- 12th May 2026


Orient v Beacon Hill Rovers 0-0

Orient started the day with a top two clash. The Os dominated the first half, but were grateful for Myers pulling off a big save towards the end. Inkpen replaced Baker at the break. Midway through the second half the ball was played out to the waiting Slater who promptly put the ball in. Puzzlingly, it was disallowed for running. No one has ever seen Slater run before and he didn’t this time. Meanwhile Barrick picked up his second green card and Baker re-entered the fray. The Os continued to dominate, but Myers made crucial saves including a double save to keep the score at 0-0.

Myers, Rains, Barrick J (Baker 14), Baker (Inkpen ht), Slater, Kassam

Orient v Billericay Town Red 1-1 Slater (pen)

The second game saw Os face Billericay Reds. Orient were slow to get going and paid the price when Billericay scored when a Myers save went straight to their striker. Inkpen came on for Baker in a more offensive 1-2-2 formation to chase the game. A goal down at the break. The second half saw the running offences tot up for the Os resulting in a penalty midway through the second half. A Myers miracle save pushing the ball up from down low onto the crossbar and out, preventing Billericay from doubling their lead. The Os continued to push for the equaliser and panic set in the Billericay defence who gave away a penalty by stepping into the area. Slater’s well hit penalty rescued a point for Orient.

Myers, Rains, Barrick J, Baker (Inkpen), Slater, Kassam

Orient v Stones Athletic 1-3 Slater (pen)

Last up were Stones who went ahead in the first minute as the Os defence fell apart. Unfortunately the option to move to a more offensive formation was no longer available with Inkpen injured, so the Os stuck with the 1-3-1 formation. The referee was quite particular about running and before the break, Orient had a penalty. Slater scored to send the teams in level at half time. The second half saw Stones get their penalty as the Os totted up the walking offences which they score to re-take the lead. Worse followed as a Stones breakaway allowed them to score a third.

Myers, Rains, Barrick J, Baker, Slater, Kassam

Whilst Orient were somewhat unfortunate to not beat Beacon Hill, and fought back well against Billericay, they fell apart against Stones. Two penalties conceded for running offences did not help, and it was fortunate that Myers’ super save helped earn Orient a point. The 1-2-2 formation was utilised against Billericay and was effective in pushing on to get the equaliser. Fortunately, Orient are still well placed for a promotion spot, level on points with second placed Eastwood Falcons, though the mysteriously disallowed goal has left Beacon Hill seven points clear. The Os will need to improve next time out.

Match Report David Clancy