AVELEY’S Parkside held its first ever international match as crowds flocked to the CONIFA World Cup in Thurrock.

Tamil Eelam and Abkhazia did battle at the Isthmian North ground, while former Liverpool goalkeeper Bruce Grobbelaar starred for Matabeleland in a win at the ground last week.

The competition, which saw squads from ‘unrecognised nations’ battle it out across stadiums in London, was won by Karpatalja.

>Aveley have announced Tom Richardson and Connor Witherspoon will remain at the club for next season.

Richardson scored nine goals in 12 matches last term, while Witherspoon was named captain following his move to the club.

>Grays Athletic winger Adeyinka Cole has been named in the Isthmian North team of the year.

Players are nominated by the managers of all clubs in the division.

>Tilbury have brought in experienced defender Simon Peddie ahead of next season, while Jack Carlile, Hussain Jaffa, Ross Gleed and Lewis Jaggs have agreed to stay at the Dockers for the 2018/19 campaign.