March To The Arch: Game 1: Barkingside v Southend Manor

The extra Preliminary Round of the F.A.Cup was played out today. In our cup Tracker 'March to the Arch' we were following the tie between Barkingside and Southend Manor.

The prizes on offer for the winning side was £750 in prize money and a lucrative tie at home to Brentwood Town of the Ryman League Div 1 North, so this was an important game for both sides. With Manor winning we will now follow them in the next round in a fortnight as they look to overcome that good Brentwood side.

SportTrades own Adam Dennehey was there to report on the game for us:

Barkingside’s FA Cup run didn’t even get underway, as they fell at the first hurdle for the second year in a row.

Manor though were just about derserving winners as a goal in each half for the visitors was enough for them to go through in the all Essex Senior League side clash at the Oakside.

In a busy opening half, both teams played well. Barkingside had an early chance to lead when Rhys Hamilton threaded a through-ball to Ryan Imbert, but the diminutive striker’s shot was blocked by Manor’s goalkeeper, Adam Seal.

Southend Manor almost scored with their first move of the match, when Anton Dwyer slotted in a pass to Jay Smith, but his shot from the edge of the area was saved by Elliot Justham.

Manor took the lead in the 19th minute, when David Tubbs Free kick was headed in by Wilf Msiska, with Juthann helpless, as the ball flew into the top corner.

Both sides had spells of possession in the remainder of the half, but were unable to create anything as the conditions worsened, thanks to a rainstorm of monsoon proportions.

Barkingside started the second half the brighter, and Imbert might have equalised but agonisingly, shot just wide. However, Manor came back into it and after a long spell of pressure increased their lead. Msiska slotting in for his second after Chris Wilson’s cross from the edge of the six yard box.

Despite Billy Pikes best efforts with his head from two corners, Side were unable to get anything back, which was perhaps a little harsh on Tony Fenns side, as they looked worthy of being in the contest.

So Side get an early weekend off in their season whilst Manor can look forward to a tasty clash at home to Brentwood in the Preliminary Round in a fortnight.

Match Details:

Barkingside: Elliot Juthann, Craig Dennis, Dave Cooper, Brad Falco, Max Holt, Reece Cosson, Perry Burns, Joe McEvoy, Billy Pike, Paul Bernett, Ryan Imbert.

Goals:
Barkingside 0 Southend Manor 1 (Wilf Msiska 19)
Barkingside 0 Southend Manor 2 (Wilf Msiska 64)