Saturday 21st December, 2024 | Buckhurst Hill 3-0 Romford | Essex Senior Premier League | Attendance :90
By Harry Biggs
The Stags took a significant step closer to the playoffs with a massive 3-0 victory over fellow promotion contenders Romford. Manager Mark Williams made three changes to the side that faced defeat against Takeley. Two new signings were included on the team sheet, adding fresh energy to the lineup.
One of the new signings was former Stags defender Liam Foster, who returned after a brief spell at Frenford. Foster left Buckhurst Hill following a successful stint in our Thurlow Nunn side and our inaugural Essex Senior League season. His return was warmly welcomed as he went straight into the starting lineup. The second change saw George Thompson replace Dan Jones, who started on the bench. Lastly, Alfie Harris came into the defense, stepping in for Jonah Gregory, who was unavailable. The substitutes bench included our second new signing, Jaime Obama Nvumba, who joined from Athletic Newham after an impressive start to the season, scoring seven goals in three games. Jaime’s debut couldn’t have been more impactful for Roding’s finest.
First Half Action
The visitors began strongly but failed to capitalize on their chances, with Man of the Match Muhammed Otuyo putting on a stellar display in goal. Just six minutes into the match, The Stags thought they had taken the lead when Suley Zuhdu was played through on goal, only for the linesman to incorrectly flag for offside.
Minutes later, Romford’s keeper Qamil Dervishaj appeared to commit a back-pass violation, but the referee missed the incident, allowing play to continue. Otuyo was called into action in the 13th minute, making a vital save to deny Romford their opener.
The Stags created a promising opportunity when Foster and Zuhdu combined beautifully, but the final pass was overhit. Romford responded with a close attempt, firing just wide of the post, and another miscued shot went well over the bar near the half-hour mark.
Buckhurst Hill nearly broke the deadlock when Tyreece Robertson’s shot, destined for the top corner, was expertly saved by Dervishaj. The resulting corner found George Thompson, but he couldn’t convert the golden chance.
Romford then forced Otuyo into another brilliant save, but The Stags finished the half strongly. Just before the break, George Thompson was brought down by Romford defender Eli Beniot while rounding the keeper, earning Buckhurst Hill a penalty.
After some drama, with the referee calling for a retake due to encroachment, Zuhdu was sin-binned for dissent. Thompson stepped up for the spot kick and calmly slotted it into the bottom corner to give The Stags a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
Second Half
The Stags wasted no time in doubling their lead early in the second half. With just 10 men temporarily on the pitch, George Thompson capitalized on a Romford mistake, sprinting down the wing and delivering a perfect pass to Tyreece Robertson. Robertson coolly finished into the bottom corner and celebrated with his signature “Chill Guy” move, much to the delight of the fans.
Buckhurst Hill continued to press, with Archie Hammond’s free-kicks narrowly missing their targets. Manager Mark Williams then made three substitutions, introducing youngsters Willison, Padington, and debutant Jaime Obama Nvumba.
Otuyo remained resolute in goal, making several spectacular saves to deny Romford any chance of a comeback. Meanwhile, substitute Padington came close to adding a third for The Stags, but his effort was saved by Dervishaj.
The final minutes saw The Stags seal the victory in style. A mis-kicked goal kick by the Romford keeper landed at Ollie Williams’ feet. With a diving header, Williams played the ball to Zuhdu, who delivered a perfect pass to Obama. The new signing chipped the keeper to score his debut goal and celebrated with a dance, as Buckhurst Hill danced their way to Christmas with a 3-0 win.
Post-Match Reactions
After the match, Captain Ollie Williams praised his team’s “great performance in tough conditions” and expressed pride in their effort. George Thompson reflected on his spot kick and shared excitement for the upcoming clash against Woodford Town.
Manager Mark Williams commended his team’s display, acknowledging the challenge posed by a much-changed Romford side. He was particularly pleased with the impact of new signings Foster and Obama. Looking ahead to the Roding Valley derby, Williams expressed confidence, stating, “I never go into a game thinking we’ll lose. It’s going to be tough, but coming away with something would be great.”
A Memorable Year at Home
This victory marked The Stags’ last home game of 2024, capping off a brilliant year. With just one match remaining—a thrilling Roding Valley derby against Woodford Town—it’s set to be one of the best fixtures in non-league football.
TEAM :
Otuyo 🧤, Foster, Carolan, Okuguni 🟨, Harris, Torsiello, Hammond, Williams ©️, Thompson ⚽, Zuhdu 🟨, Robertson ⚽
SUBS :
Padington (62’ – Robertson), Willison (63’ – Hammond), Jones, Obama – Nvumba ⚽ (63’ – Thompson), Ismaili
UPCOMING GAMES:
Saturday 27th December 2024 – Woodford Town (A) – Essex Senior League – RODING VALLEY DERBY
Saturday 4th January, 2025 – Benfleet (H) – Essex Senior League
Wednesday 8th January, 2025 – Athletic Newham – Essex Senior League
