Athletic Newham 4, Grays Athletic 5

GRAYS have finally won their first game of the season after beating Essex Senior League Athletic Newham in a nine-goal thriller under new boss Darren Manning.

The Blues progressed to round four of the BBC Essex Senior Cup after the sides met for the first time ever on Wednesday (22 November) evening.

Grays took an early lead thanks to goals from Aron Gordon in the 20th and 22nd minute. But The Kings fought back, Joel Appiah grabbed his brace at a similar speed to Gordon. His goals in the 33rd and 36th minute.

Honours even at half-time. An entertaining first 45 for the 40 in attendance at Lawtech Stadium.

Charlie Stimson put Grays ahead in the 49th minute, yet six minutes later Newham was level again through Daniel Izekor.

Ruben Soares-Junior replaced Jordan Peart in the 68th minute. Soares-Junior made an instant impact, scoring for the away side just two minutes after coming on. Four minutes later The Blues found themselves two up after Michael Finneran's goal.

Newham gave it a right go and Tom Gogo scored in the 90th minute, bringing about a nervy few minutes for Grays.

Nonetheless, Grays claimed their first victory of the season under new manager Darren Manning. An instant impact by the returning man!

The Blues now turn their focus to league action on Saturday (25 November).

They face Stowmarket Town in the Isthmian League North Division at Greens Meadow. Grays sit in 18th and Stowmarket 19th, a real six-pointer even at this stage of the season!