CLACTON 0

WAPPING IV 2

East Men’s League division three SE

CLACTON put in a solid performance against top-of-the-table Wapping.

They frustrated the visitors up to the break, but their patched-up side were unable to hold out in the second period.

Michael Hook was in great form, using every part of his body and agility to frustrate Wapping.

The visitors also missed a penalty as man-of-the-match Hook pressured their forward to shoot wide.

Kieron Parkes was solid in defence, intercepting play and joining in Clacton’s forays forward.

It was far from backs-against-the-wall from Clacton, with Francis Sanderson attacking down the right and Rik Coleman and Shane Walker linking up down the left, with Sam Hodge and Stephen Moriarty causing problems with their attacking play.

Moriarty went close with the score at 0-0.

Denzil Donovan was on hand, nursing a shoulder injury, to produce a priceless shift in midfield as Thomas Jones was delayed until half-time on his 300-mile journey to make the game.

Nick Key made sure the visitors’ attackers had to go the long way round, with Mat Timms consistent as ever, robbing his opponent and running tirelessly all game.

Captain Carl Parkes was proud of the spirit shown in the last two weeks, particularly this week against top-of-the-table opposition.

The Seasiders only warmed up with nine players with five minutes to go until the start.

On Saturday Clacton travel to Witham, needing a victory as the crucial period of the season draws near.