Avleley 0, Tilbury 3

TILBURY have gone five points clear at the top of the Isthmian North table after Monday evening's impressive win at neighbours Aveley.

Aveley have been somewhat goal shy of late and are clearly in need of a player with a cutting edge. Clearly, despite their good start to the season, Tilbury felt the same about their squad and moved to sign veteran striker Tony Stokes, who made his debut as a second half substitute in Saturday's FA Trophy defeat at Aylesbury United.

At Parkside last night (Monday, 19 October) he started the ball rolling by curling home the opening goal on 21 minutes, the striker expertly finding the top corner of the Millers net.

An anticipated second half onslaught from the hosts didn't really arrive as the Dockers' defence stood strong, and eight minutes from time the win was effectively confirmed as Brian Moses scored from the spot. The visitors made it three soon afterwards, Cameron Brodie making quite sure four minutes from time.

Avelely will be looking to bounce back when Witham Town visit Parkside on Saturday, while the Dockers have a weekend off before a top of the table clash at Maldon & Tiptree on Tuesday, 27 October.

Meanwhile, for just the third time in 16 FA competition draws, Avelely have been given a home tie in the third qualifying round of the FA Trophy and will be at home to Beaconsfield FC on 31 October.