MATCH REPORT: ENFIELD 0-2 WEST ESSEX

A brace from substitute Zak Oliver ensured West Essex inflicted just a third league defeat of the season for Enfield.

Despite a strong first half from the E’s, they were unable to break down a stubborn West Essex defence, who ensured the match would be goalless going in at half-time. However, after the restart, the Stags scored twice in the final 12 minutes to stun Enfield and pick up three points.

With seven minutes on the clock, the home side created the first effort on goal but Aaron Greene’s strike was wide of the target. A few moments later, Tom Hanfrey’s corner fell towards Jack Grosvenor at the backpost but the defender’s header struck the post. Grosvenor came close shortly after but could only head over the bar.

Midway through the first half, Kieran Bishop pushed forwarddown the right-hand side before his cross was cleared into the path of Louie Johnson, who struck wide. The E’s continuedtheir search for the opening goal of the game and came close on 33 minutes. Gavin Cockman’s throw-in fell to Johnson, whose shot was saved before the rebound from Solomon Ofori was once again kept out by the goalkeeper.

In the closing stages of the first half, the ball fell to Ofori on the edge of the area but his strike was saved by Arthur Leblond. Despite a dominant display from Enfield, they were unable to find the back of the net and the score was goalless at the break.

West Essex improved in the second half and almost went in front in the 56th minute. An error from Tyler Corlett was capitalised on by Ezequiel Franchi, who slid through Bloss but Monk was there to make the save. Meanwhile, up the other end, Ofori’s cross fell to Grosvenor, who headed off-target.

However, with 12 minutes to go, the away side capitalised on some lacklustre defending from Enfield and broke the deadlock. The ball fell to the substitute Zak Oliver, who slotted home into the bottom corner. Oliver almost scored again minutes later but his header hit the crossbar.

In the final minutes of the game, Enfield were inches away from equalising, but Hanfrey’s header was tipped over brilliantly by Leblond. However, West Essex doubled their lead in the final minute of the game as Zak Oliver’s strike found its way into the back of the net to ensure the Stags would head back to North London with all three points.