Aveley 1, Bognor Regis 6

AFTER a thrilling start to life in the Isthmian Premier Division, with impressive victories against Hastings and Billericay, Aveley were brought down to earth with a bump at Parkside on Saturday (20 august) as Bognor blasted them for six in an emphatic victory that took the Rocks to the top of the table.

Aveley made a bright start and had good claims for a penalty waved away before Nick Dembele got his first of the season for the visitors after 13 minutes but there was no indication of what was ultimately to follow as Millers responded well and they drew level six minutes later.

The goal came from George Sykes who showed a great touch to chip keeper Toby Steward after latching onto a ball over the top.

Another six minutes passed before the game's third goal and it was an unfortunate one for the Millers, defender Jon Nzengo diverting a cross past his own keeper David Hughes.

Five minutes later Bognor Regis extended the lead when Alfie Bridgman took aim from 20 yards out and found the bottom right hand corner of the goal to send the visitors into half time leading 3-1.

A minute into the second half and Bognor almost made it four, but Aveley's goalkeeper David Hughes pulled off a magnificent save to deny Isaac Olaniyan from close range.

However, it was only brief respite.

On the 62nd minute Nathan Odokonyero kept the ball with great close control before unleashing a shot into the goal for his third of the season. Four minutes later and he scored his fourth after a penalty was awarded and he converted the spot kick.

Goal number six came on 72 minutes from Isaac Olaniyan who was on the end of some pinball in the Aveley area to force the ball home from close range.