JOHN Coventry was pleased to pay tribute to Ben Bennett, who tragically passed away in the early hours of Wednesday morning, by leading East Thurrock United to an impressive 4-2 victory over Haringey Borough.

Bennett saved Rocks from likely extinction 20 years ago by agreeing to take over ownership of the club in exchange for clearing the far from insignificant debts.

And, having endured an emotional week, East Thurrock boss Coventry was pleased to overcome Haringey in the Isthmian Premier League clash at the Grayers Graphics Stadium.

“I’ve had a tough week and it’s not been enjoyable,” said Coventry.

“The day was good and winning for Ben was the right thing to try and do.

“He would be proud of what we did.”

East Thurrock responded to going behind thanks to Anthos Solomou’s long range strike in style.

Darren Foxley got Rocks back on level terms nine minutes later by stabbing home after Ryan Scott had been denied by goalkeeper Pablo Casillas Carro.

Amos Nasha then turned the game on its head with an impressive solo effort rounded off by a long range drive.

Frankie Merrifield added a third goal in first half injury time by nodding an enticing Foxley delivery beyond Casillas Carro.

Mitch Gilbey tapped a Merrifield flick-on into the back of the net from close range soon after the hour mark.

Although Chiduben Onokwai pulled a goal back for Haringey after rounding goalkeeper Jack Giddens, Rocks were able to bag a fully deserved three points.

And Coventry was overjoyed with East Thurrock’s performance.

“I thought we were brilliant,” added Coventry.

“We were dreadful at Bishop’s Stortford and we had a good chat about that at training.

“We came up with a way of approaching this game and everyone agreed it was the right way.

“I thought we caused them constant problems going forward in the first half.

“If we had been winning by more, I don’t think anyone would have argued.

“We always knew they are a good footballing side, so you have to be aware of what they can do and make sure you don’t give them easy opportunities to get in.

“They went ahead and that showed what they have in their locker, but we kept going and did the ugly stuff as well as the good stuff.

“That’s what was really pleasing for me.”