Takeley Reserves 1-2 Waltham Forest Reserves

The Reserves opening League match was fraught with difficulties from the start. Roadworks and heavy traffic on the North Circular meant that just 11 eligible players departed from Matchday Stadium for the journey to Takeley. Diversions and then delays on the M11 meant that it was after 1.30 before we reached Takeley’s Station Road Ground.

The team was quickly into its stride however, and dominated the early stages with Pierre Garner-Weekes threatening up front and Pelummy Martin giving Takeley full back Josh Jewson a torrid time.
Somewhat against the run of play Takeley took the lead on 16 minutes when Jordan Westcott fired in a low shot which beat William Hunt at his near post. The Forest keeper seemed to be unsighted when the attempt was first struck.

Forest countered strongly and Enosch Arbout saw a well placed free kick headed just over the bar.

In the second half Forest continued to dominate and fully deserved their equaliser on 69 minutes. Another free kick from Arbout found Jon Jon Sexton at the far post to out-jump everyone to head home. Forest continued to press and Alan Callaghan, Enver Hristov and Garnier-Weekes all went close before Ivo Mendes unleashed a shot from well outside the area on 77 minutes that gave Alfie Long in the home goal no chance to put Forest ahead.

Forest contained most of the Takeley attacks as the hosts sought to draw level with an effort rebounding from the post being their best effort, and as the final whistle went it was Forest who were on the attack.

Team was:- William Hunt, Jetmir Brija, Timor Sarazi, Ivo Mendes, Jon Jon Sexton, Enver Hristov, Alan Callaghan, John Matulanda, Pierre Garner-Weekes, Enosch Arbout and Pelummy Martin.

Report by Tony Brazier