Southend Manor 2, East Thurrock Community FC 1

AFTER a run of six consecutive wins in the Thurlow Nunn Eastern Counties South Division, Rocks have now tasted defeat twice in succession.

They came out on the wrong side of the scoreline after a hard-fought clash at Southchurch Park Arena on Saturday (31 October).

Manor made a bright start to the afternoon, taking the lead in the 18th minute through debutant Emmanuel Sergio, who latched onto a ball over the opposition defence, rounded the goalkeeper and calmly slotted home.

The first half was a competitive, end-to-end affair, with both sides enjoying spells of possession and creating opportunities.

However, Manor took a deserved advantage into the break.

And the pattern continued after the restart with the home side marginally on top.

Despite having an effort ruled out for offside, Manor kept creating chances and their persistence finally paid off in the 79th minute when Ashiqur Rahman delivered a dangerous corner into the box. East Thurrock goalkeeper could only punch the ball away, and substitute Ralph Harrold reacted quickest to the loose ball, slotting home to double our advantage!

The visitors managed to pull a goal back in the 91st minute, setting up a nervy finish, but Manor stood firm to see out the closing moments.

East Thurrock are away next weekend, travelling to Cannons Wood