Tiptree Heath 3, East Thurrock CFC 2

THE Essex and Suffolk Border League Premier Division leaders went into Saturday's (5 October) match on the back of an impressive nine-match unbeaten run, but strong winds made for incredibly difficult conditions, which the hosts took better advantage of.

The match kicked off with early promise for the visitors, with Zac Bussell making an impressive run down the right flank in the seventh minute, using his strength to win a free kick in a dangerous position.

It was a strong start from the Rocks, however on 12 minutes, Tommy Bruley produced a fantastic save to deny the home side in a one-on-one situation.

Shortly after, a handball by the opposition led to a free kick on the right side. Harry Prince stepped up and delivered a brilliant effort, putting Rocks ahead on 14 minutes and seemingly in control.

However, Tiptree grew into the game and responded in the 33rd minute, finding an impressive equaliser, whipped into Bruley's top left-hand corner to level the score.

The first half was a scrappy affair, with strong winds disrupting the flow of play and making it difficult for either side to build momentum.

As the second half began, Tiptree started to take control. In the 53rd minute, the home side scored with a powerful driven shot into the bottom left corner from distance, making it 2-1. Rocks nearly responded six minutes later when Ross Barnes latched onto a loose ball, but his strike failed to hit the target.

Tiptree extended their lead in the 72nd minute. Despite the setback, Rocks team kept pushing. A determined run from Barnacle down the left led to a delivery into the box, and after a few deflections, Daly finished well from the edge of the area.

In the dying moments, Rocks almost snatched a consolation, hitting the bar in the 94th minute. However, it wasn't to be, and the final whistle confirmed a first defeat of the season.

1. Tommy Bruley, 2.  Lewis Gardener, 7. Bobby Reeman, 8. Tommy Barnacle, 9. Ross Barnes, 10. Kieron Miles, 11. Bailey Morris, 12. Zac Bussell, 16. Keiran Case, 17. Joey Purdy, 20. Harry Prince (C). Subs: 3. Louis Sharkey (61), 4.  Harry Daly (78), 5.  Faith Segemani (73), 19. Owen Dixie (87), 21. Harry Salter (75).

Next up is a home match against Springfield on Saturday, 11 October at the Wyldecrest Sports Country Club.