Stow v Redbridge preview

Walthamstow host Redbridge this Saturday in the so called 275 derby in the Isthmian League Division One North.

Stow extended their unbeaten run with a commanding 5-0 win away at Witham Town on Tuesday via a brace from Gassem Benelghazi and goals from Rasheed Salau, Brian Garzon and Jordan Peart. The hosts also went down to 10 men midway through the first half when captain Ryan Mallet was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Salau.

Redbridge currently sit outside the playoff spots and have won 6 out of 13 games with five of them being in FA competitions. The Motormen reached the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup but lost at home to Royston Town. They also got knocked out of the FA Trophy at home to Waltham Abbey the following weekend. In the Isthmian League, they’ve won four, drawn one and lost three.

Last season’s meetings between the two clubs ended in wins for either side. Stow travelled to Barkingside in January, but it was the hosts who secured the three points in a 3-0 win. Redbridge went in front 14 minutes in via Olamji Ayoola, but Stow could’ve had two chances to get back into the game. Johnville Renee’s penalty hit the crossbar, and only a few minutes later, Rasheed Salau’s goal was ruled out for offside. Redbridge then took full control in the second half and extended their lead through former Stow player and Essex Senior League winner Tendi Quamina. They eventually got their third by current Stow vice-captain Joe Elliott which sealed the game. Stow welcomed Redbridge to E17 in April after a poor run of form and came away as 2-0 winners. Former Redbridge man Louie Johnson got the first goal of the afternoon a minute from half time. Stow wrapped up the three points in the 88^th minute with a beautiful finish from Tyrone Baker.

Walthamstow and Redbridge’s common people

The list of players to have played for both clubs is endless, but there are some notable ones that we can name such as Billy Read and Billy Cove in the early 2000s.

Other players to have played for both sides include Danny Bailey, Nicky Barrett, John Bricknell, Steven Ikumelo, Louie Johnson, Danny Laurent, Jack Leachman, Tony Martin, Brian Moses, Samson Uwandu, Tendi Quamina and Joe Elliott.

Both current managers Vinny Murphy and Chris Taylor have played for both sides, with Taylor coming through the Stow youth teams and reserve teams before going on to play for the first team.

Former boss Terry Spillane has also managed either side, helping Stow to the Essex Senior League title alongside John Mackie. He also helped Redbridge get to the third round of the FA Cup.