Saturday saw Upminster 3s back at Coopers and looking to maintain their winning start to the season against East London.
After a cagey opening to the game in which moves broke down frequently in midfield, it was Upminster who drew first blood from a short corner as captain Martin Nutt beat two players before finding the back of the net. East London rallied but it was Upminster who extended their lead as youngster Toby Dunlea was able to capitalise on some lax East London defending to finish from close range. East London managed to pull a goal back with a fine strike on the stroke of half time to halve the deficit and remain in touch.
After half time the familiar midfield battle continued but Upminster held firm with crucial tackles made by Michael Jones and man of the match Tom Hilson. The evergreen John Brooks restored Upminster’s cushion by tapping in Nutt’s cross while Club veteran Matt Malby added a fourth. Disappointingly, Upminster conceded a late second but ran out comfortable 4-2 winners and will now look to continue their fine start to the season next Saturday when they face Wapping at the Olympic Park.
Man of the match: Tom Hilson
Defender of the Match: Martin Nutt
