A good night’s work for the Manor as they make progress in the Eastern Floodlit Cup. Hat trick for Jamie Wallace and super strike from Lee Smith seals the victory and revenge for Saturday 3- 0 drubbing by the same opposition.

Not all plain sailing for the Braves, but they are good value for the win on a gloomy night at Chadfields. “A tonic” said Manor boss Kirk Whitelock “We needed a lift after Saturday and this was the perfect response.” Hard to argue with upbeat Whitelock, his revamped side look good as two Jamie Wallace goals give them a comfortable half time advantage.

Wallace and Chester always a handful in an entertaining half which sees Lee Smith and Charlie Tarten on top in an enthralling midfield battle.

Brentwood have little to offer but debutant Braves keeper Richard, repels one real moment of danger finger tipping fierce drive against the crossbar.

Braves need to stay focused second half, Brentwood pull one back soon after the interval, but it’s against the run of play and the Manor bench not unduly worried. Optimism is rewarded on the hour, Wallace completes his hat trick before Lee Smith makes it 4 -1 with a stunning 20 yarder. Manor well on top with Joe Dixon and Dean Pearson looking lively.

Brentwood come back at the Manor last 20 minutes, they cut the deficit to 4–2, but were denied any further joy as the Essex County U'18s shot stopperr Richard Bastin makes another outstanding save from McArdle’s downward header, plunging low to his left to claw the ball away.

No further scares as the Braves dictate the final minutes “What a difference from Saturday” concludes Kirk Whitelock “more shape, more spirit and a real will to win. Quality performances throughout, hard to single anyone out but, Joe Dixon I thought was "outstanding”.

Manor Man of the Match

Joe Dixon – Patience rewarded, took his chance to shine..

Joe Dixon

Manor Team:

Bastin, Coker, Reading, Marsh, Smith, Wallace, Pearson, Connely,Tarten, Dixon, Chester. Sub, Clarey, Whyche, Parker, Jenkins, Day, Kendall.

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