Alresford Colne Rangers 0, East Thurrock Community FC 3

IN contrast to last season's debut start in the Essex and Suffolk Border league Premier Division, Rocks got off to a flier with a win at the first time of asking on Satuirday (9 August).

The visitors started the game very aggressively chasing every ball making sure they won every first and second ball.

Relentless pressure was applied on the hosts backline forcing them into making poor passes and mistimed touches. This attacking start was rewarded as Tommy Barnacle picked up a loose ball and took it around the keeper, scoring on his competitive debut.

Even after opening the scoring the Rocks didn't let up on the pressure and continued to chase after every ball to win it back as soon as possible, the home side weren't being allowed any time on the ball as lots of quick passing from the visitors meant they were constantly defending.

A second goal for East Thurrock seemed almost certain as shots from Harry Salter and Kieran Miles flew centimetres over the bar. Alresford were able to break through the solid defence of the visiting side and have a shot at goal, but it went wide.

Not long after, Rocks' lead was doubled as Salter got his goal after multiple close attempts. However, the visitors weren't done just yet and just before half time they grabbed a third as scrappy play in the box saw the ball turned in by Zac Bussel on his league debut. 

The second half was more of the same as East Thurrock kept up their attacking style of play.

They remained the dominant side having the majority of possession and looking very threatening. The Rocks, searching for a fourth, saw shots from Harry Prince land on the roof of the net and fly over the bar. Kieran Case also came close with multiple attempts landing in the keeper's hands and rolling across the face of goal.

Despite their efforts the visitors were unable to score again and the game ended as a 3-0 win for the Rocks.

Next up for the Rocks is a home match against White Notley on Saturday, 16 August, 3pm kick-off.

LINEUP: 1 Tommy Bruley, 4 Ray Snares (c), 5 Faith Segemani, 6 Marcus Bella, 7 Bobby Reeman, 8 Harry Daly, 9 Tommy Barnacle, 10 Kieran Miles, 11 Bailey Morris, 14 Zac Bussel, 21 Harry Salter. SUBS:

2 Lewis Gardener, 16 Joey Purdy, 17 Kieran Case, 19 Owen Dixie, 20 Harry Prince.