The Manor entertained High flyers Romford for this clash and even though Manager Kevin Durrent and coach Paul Norris had emphasised the importance of a committed first 20 minutes, the Braves were 2nd best for much of the opening phase of the game.

In truth, although the visitors created little, it was only the strength of the Manor back 4 and keeper Nick Wisons sure handling that kept them on terms. However from a well worked corner the visitors took the lead when the Manor defenders failed to pick up the runner, 1-0 to Romford.

Again, after going a goal down the Braves started to compete at last and should have done much better when one of the Manor strikers left with a clear run on goal failed to make the visitors pay. The rest of the half was pretty much a stalemate with both defences handling any attacks with relative ease.

Half time, still 1-0 to the visitors. Come the 2nd half and the Braves, galvanised in the interval, roared into action. Even the vociferous supporters of Romford were unable to shake the visitors from their stupor as wave after wave of Manor attacks were repulsed by combination of last ditch defending .

Great saves were made by the Romford keeper to deny Dean Frett and Jerry Nkrumah and a fantastic volley by Courtney Linton was only denied a goal by the woodwork. So the half went on with the Braves in control for the most part and striving for the equaliser. Sporadic attacks by the visitors were easily contained by the Manor defence but justice was not to be done and the vital strike did not happen for the Braves. Final score 1-0 to Romford. The Manor wish Romford and their hardy supporters all the best in their foray into the Ryman League.

Man Of the Match

Aaron May - Great composure in Defence

The Manor's next game is at home to Clapton in the League on Saturday 18th April 2009, kick-off at 3pm.eam:

Steve LAMBERT: Jason FOX, Kieran KING; Jamil SYLLA, Joe ELLUL , Liam ALLEN; Junior YIADOM-KONADU, Fabio JESUS, Manley BROWN (Captain), Jakovo Odasi-Ulkueku, Liam MULCARE.

Substitutes: Tom QUERRY, Alinani MOUNTER , Alan EAMES, Beckley LOUKMAN, Antonio YOTOV, Ricardo AMADO.