Thurrock 5-1 AFC Sudbury

From Ship Lane

Ryman One North

 

THURROCK thrashed AFC Sudbury to continue their fine recent form and keep pace with those at the top.

Fleet hit five past on-loan Concord Rangers goalkeeper Ollie Bowles, with Michael Toner, Charlie Stimson, Lewwis Spence, Jordan Clark and Joe Christou all getting on the score sheet against the side that began the day in third place.

The first two goals came within a 60 second spell and it was superb goal that got the ball rolling on 11 minutes.

A fierce drive from Toner flew into the corner from more than 30 yards, with Bowles rooted to the spot as the rising effort ripped into the net.

And, in the blink of an eye, it was 2-0. Christou played in the striker and Stimson sold the defender a dummy before placing his effort inside the far post.

David Cowley chipped onto the roof of the net, with Spence also coming close.

It was 2-0 at the break although Sudbury did start the second-half well and got a goal back within three minutes.

Ben Robinson scored the goal after Craig Parker had played the forward through but moments later Thurrock found the net again.

Stimson fed the ball into the path of Spence and he planted the ball beyond the reach of Bowles and into the net, having also scored against Great Wakering Rovers in the week.

Sam Bantick shot wide for Sudbury with Jordan Clark making it 4-1 soon after from the penalty spot, after Ross Wall was bundled to the floor.

Wall came close to scoring number five although Christou did cap off a fine day with the fifth late on, shooting home after more good work from Jordan Clark.

There was still time for more drama, as Christou was sent off after a confrontation with Bantick, with Fleet coach Tony Gay enraged with the decision and sent from the touchline.

Thurrock: Madden, Morgan, L Clark, Toner, Sutton, J Clark, Christou, Spence (Gleed), Stimson (Fontaine), Wall, Cowley (Orth)