Bryn Thorpe gets winner as Takeley beat Ilford 1-0 in Essex Senior League

Bryn Thorpe got the only goal of the game as Takeley won 1-0 at home to Ilford on the opening day of the new Essex Senior League, Premier Division season on Saturday (July 27).

He pounced on a poor touch by a defender and drilled the ball into the far corner with his left foot to secure the points for the hosts in the second half.

Stansted and Sawbridgeworth Town were both beaten away from home on their return to the ESL after spending a year in the Spartan South Midlands League, Premier Division.

Stansted had the better of the opening exchanges at Hullbridge Sports, but found themselves 4-0 down at the break and ultimately lost 5-0.

Zayshaun Asamoah bagged a brace for the hosts while Conor Hart, Jack Unwin and Mechack Asuka also netted.

Sawbo suffered a 2-0 defeat at Frenford as Jordon Elongo and Warren Kayembe struck for their opponents.

All three sides begin this term’s Emirates FA Cup adventure at the weekend in the extra preliminary round.

Stansted welcome Pitching In Southern League, Division One Central side Biggleswade FC to Hargrave Park on Friday night (August 2).

Sawbo host FC Romania on Saturday (August 3) and Takeley visit Colney Heath, with both opponents plying their trade in the South Midlands League.