Aveley 1-3 AFC Hornchurch

From Mill Field

Ryman One North

 

AVELEY missed out on the chance to extend their lead at the top of the table as they were beaten by AFC Hornchurch on Friday night.

The Millers were looking to pull away at the top of the Ryman One North, but they are instead replaced at the summit by the Urchins who ran out 3-1 winners at Mill Field.

Aveley got off to the worst possible start when a former foe came back to put the visitors ahead. David Knight, formerly of Thurrock, netted with just four minutes on the clock after he rounded home goalkeeper James Marrable to slot home.

Back came Aveley, as the red-hot Liam Nash was denied by Sam Mott, with James Peagram kept out soon after.

But Aveley's pressure was rewarded when Elbi scored the leveller. Perry Dunn flick on a corner and there was Elbi to slot home.

However, having seized the initiative it wasn't long before Aveley were behind once again. George Purcell scored a fine strike from long range with the goalkeeper comfortably beaten.

What followed was a moment of contention, as Marcus Elliott crashed an effort of the underside of the crossbar and despite loud calls that the ball had crossed the line the referee was unmoved.

And it was Purcell once again who made sure of the result, as he passed home having been allowed too much space by the hosts.

 

Aveley: Marrable, Preston, Deen, Baker, Dunn, Seamour, Nash, Peagram (Retkoceri), Elbi, Pearman (Fallah), Elliott (Weemes)