Maidenhead United 2-1 East Thurrock United

(Tarpey 35’, Parkinson 67’: Wood 54’)

From York Road

National League South

EAST Thurrock United pushed league leaders Maidenhead United all the way in a keenly-contested contest, albeit one that ended in defeat.

Ben Wood had levelled for Rocks with a stunning goal but the potent attack of the leaders was too strong in the end as they ran out 2-1 winners.

John Coventry’s men showed no signs of being overawed by the league leaders and they could have taken an early lead.

A neat counter-attack ended with Ben Marlow’s low strike hitting the outside of the post.

Maidenhead’s Dean Inman headed over, with only a spectacular save from Lukas Lidakevicius stopping James Mulley’s half volley from finding the net.

The stopper kept out National League South top scorer Dave Tarpey, although he wasn’t to be denied for long - lobbing home after 35 minutes for his 42nd goal of the season.

It was a real collector’s item that brought Rocks level.

Wood, 37, picked up the ball from a corner and unleashed an unstoppable drive into the top corner.

But midway through the second period Maidenhead restored their lead. Sean Marks did superbly to shield the ball and Jack Parkinson drove the loose ball past Lidakevicius.

Tarpey hit the post when well placed as Maidenhead held on for the points.

East Thurrock United: Lidakevicius, Sammons, Osifuwa, Peddie, Marvin Ekpiteta, Wood, Harris, Heard, Higgins, Marlow, Wraight