News in Thurrock

Grays Athletic 2, Heybridge Swifts 3

GRAYS started the better side in the opening few minutes of the Bet Victor Isthmian North clash, dominating the ball and looking the more dangerous.

East Thurrock United 0, Worthing 0

A hard-fought game at the Grayers Graphics Stadium ended goalless on Saturday (4 January) despite both sides carving out countless efforts on goal over the ninety minutes.

ALL four borough sides look set to beat the weather and challenge for Bet Victor Isthmian points today (Saturday, 4 January).

Premier Division East Thurrock United have been buoyed by a New Year's Day derby win against Bowers & Pitsea and the unexpected retention of loanee Darren Foxley but still face a huge task at the Grayers Graphic Stadium when high-flying Worthing visit.

Bowers & Pitsea 1, East Thurrock United 2

EAST Thurrock United continue to defy the odds as a depleted and patched up squad produced a solid display to see off the Bet Victor Isthmian Premier challenge of Bowers in today's New Year's Day derby at the Len Salmon Stadium.

Basildon United 4, Grays Athletic 2

GRAYS came away from Basildon on the end of another disappointing result - but at one point it looked like there might be a different outcome as they clawed back a two goal deficit.

GRAYS Athletic will start the new year with a trip to Basildon United and an encounter with one of Thurrock's much-travelled footballing sons.

Kris Newby, who numbers East Thurrock United, Aveley and Tilbury among his past clubs in a chequered career that has also taken in Romford, Witham Town, AFC Sudby and Great Wakering Rovers, has been appointed interim player-manager of the Bees, who are fighting a relegation battle in the lower reached of the Bet Victor Isthmian North.

Aveley 6, Romford 0

FOR a second successive match Aveley his six goals to round what has been a spectacular first half of the season off in style.

IT'S unlikely, but Aveley could end the year on top of the Bet Victor Isthmian North division if things go their way today.

The Millers sit three points behind leaders Maldon & Tiptree – who have played three games less – but were the Jammers to lose today in a derby at mid-table Witham Town then the door is open to Aveley to go top.

Grays Athletic 1, Aveley 6

BOXING day turned into a festive occasion to forget for Grays fans - but Thurrock's Merry Millers are is top spirits after a tremendous derby win.

THERE are two Boxing Day derbies to savour today as the three borough teams in the Bet Victor Isthmian North return to action.

Many eyes will be on Parkside where tenants Grays Athletic play host to high-flying landlords Aveley.