Barking & Dagenham 2- 2 Redbridge (Redbridge win 3 – 1 on Penalties.) 

BARKING & DAGENHAM SUFFERED a penalty shootout defeat for the second time this season as they crashed out of the Essex Cup at the hands of Redbridge.

The first fifteen minutes saw the home team dominating proceedings with slick passing and opportunities galore. Redbridge could not cope with surging runs from Zafer on the left and Fabamifobee in a striking role.

Determined play in midfield from Mann and Klimas allowed the home team to surge forward and, after twenty minutes, Barking and Dagenham had scored two goals thanks to Ukonu and Solomon who took their chances well.

Breakthrough

The tide now changed and Redbridge began to find confidence. Despite solid play from Bangurah and Kosoko in defence, Redbridge got the breakthrough they wanted and scored before half time.

After the interval, Redbridge continued to cause panic amongst the home team’s defence.

The away team would have had a field day but for a heroic goalkeeping display by the agile and brave Abhi Pal.

Despite some superb long passes from Shehu to the wings, the home side lacked energy and allowed the visitors time and space.

As Redbridge drove forward with purpose, a desperate tackle resulted in the award of a penalty. The home keeper had no chance and the scores were now level at 2 – 2.

Skill Patches

Extra time ensued and the home team showed patches of the skill and team play that had won them the league title. However, it was Redbridge that remained more lively and determined.

Despite chances at both ends, the stalemate situation continued until the final whistle.

The dreaded penalty shootout proved to be no contest as Redbridge scored all their penalties and the home side only scored one.

Barking and Dagenham take part next week in the prestigious ESFA/Premier League 9-a-side Tournament at Barnet. They will of course hope to avoid any penalty shootouts!

Barking & Dagenham: N Solomon (Southwood), A Kosoko (Richard Alibon), M Klimas (Marsh Green), S Ukuno, (Dorothy Barley), A Pal (Dorothy Barley), I Bangurah (Valence), A Shehu (Hunters Hall), A Zafer (Gascoigne), R Mann (Rush Green), T Fabamifobee (George Garey.)