Aveley boss celebrates after packed week for his dynamic Millers outfit (From Thurrock Gazette)

Joy for Gardner as Millers boss maerks year in charge at Mill Field

10:29am Wednesday 27th February 2013 in Sport

NON-LEAGUE: PETRIT Elbi scored a dramatic stoppage time winner as Justin Gardner celebrated a year in charge of Millers with two wins in three days, writes Matt Abbott.

Following a disappointing derby day defeat to promotion rivals Grays Athletic last week, Aveley bounced back with a 5-0 win away to Ilford, before beating Harlow Town 1-0 at Milfield on Monday night.

Junior Dadson hit two for Millers against Ilford, after missing out against Grays due to personal circumstances. But it was Elbi who gave Aveley the lead, scoring after 33 minutes. In the 37th minute, skipper Billy Holland was set up by Jordan Cox to make it 2-0. Seven minutes into the second period, some excellent work by Sheldon Sellears set Dadson up for his first. A clever volley from the edge of the area by Jordan Cox then gave Aveley their fourth of the game before Sellears set Dadson away, who proceeded to stroke the ball past Robert Hatton to make it 5-0 with more than half the second period to play.

On Monday evening, Blues triumphed over financially troubled Harlow Town, with Elbi striking a stunning 25 yard free kick in the 93rd minute of the game.

Gardner celebrated a year since taking over. Aveley lie second in the Ryman Division One North with 14 games left to play. When Gardner took over 12 months ago, Millers were rock bottom of the Ryman Premier league. They were eventually relegated, but under the stewardship of Gardner are now in a good position to bounce straight back up.

For non league reports, news and pictures see Friday's THURROCK GAZETTE