Redbridge Ladies 2 Valley Green 1
(Essex Girls League U11S Plate competition)

PLAYING on a difficult, bumpy pitch Redbridge struggled to get into their stride.

But with the wind behind them they managed to dominate the first half and it was no surprise when Hamlett opened the scoring after a fine run and cross by Peattie.

St Croix added a second soon after to give Redbridge a comfortable half-time lead.

Valley Green tried hard to get back into the match after the break but Redbridge defended well.

Brown nearly made the game safe when she thumped a free kick against the crossbar and Oshodi in the Redbridge goal made an outstanding save, diving full length to turn a shot around the post.

The importance of this save was shown soon after when Valley Green scored direct from a corner but it was too late and Redbridge ran out 2-1 winners to advance to the final.

Bealonians A 1 Buckhurst Hill C 3
(Echo League U8s) THE early pressure came from Bealonians but they were unable to capitalise on their possession of the ball.

Strong defending from man of the match Spencer-Fenton ensured Hill's opponents were kept at bay.

As Hill gained in confidence they worked the ball upfield creating numerous chances.

Hill scored first with Page tucking away after some good work by Clark and L Hill.

Bealonians fought back to draw level but the game was put out of reach by two further strikes from Page who showed great skill and control to convert chances created by Clark and L Hill.

Edmonton Youth 3 Ryan 7
(Enfield Challenge Trophy U14s) RYAN arrived with just 11 players and no substitutes but shocked the hosts when Morris crossed and debutant Williams swept the ball home.

Edmonton hit the post and bar before Morris again crossed for Cardo to flick it in.

Ryan conceded a penalty which keeper Mamoon saved but the loose ball was netted.

After the break Ryan scored three very quick goals from Cardo, Holloway and Williams to take control.

They relaxed and let the home side in to score a penalty and another goal.

A quality overhead kick by Holloway drew later applause.

The final goal was a superb Morris chip after good work by Taylor. Ryan's MoM: Danny Gough.

Waltham Forest Youth 2 Barn Sports 0
(Echo League U8s) FOREST would have had several more goals if it hadn't been for the Sports keeper, and the crossbar and posts.

Dante McIntosh, who was standing in for regular Forest keeper Arthur Janata, proved to be good at stopping the ball.

He was ably supported in defence by Shania Leacock, Bradley Good and team captain, Luke Pash.

Jack Lee scored the first goal midway through the first half after a pass from Demitris James. Max Cooper increased the score.

Anthony Coleman also had an excellent game for Forest.