Ebbsfleet United v Boreham Wood

The Fleet will look to get over their disappointing loss to Chelmsford as they entertain Boreham Wood on Saturday. The visitors, like the Fleet, have had a poor start to the season having won two of their opening eight matches.

Let's take a look at the visitors...

Boreham Wood FC

Founded - 1948

Nickname – The Wood

Ground – Meadow Park

Manager – Ian Allinson

Last season's finish - 9^th

Current position - 20^th

• Boreham Wood were founded in 1948 after Boreham Rovers and Royal Retournez combined.
• Joined the Athenian League structure in 1966.
• Two promotions followed, and they then joined the Isthmian League in 1974/75 after winning the top division of the Athenian League structure.
• Won promotion to the Isthmian Premier in 1977 and then became a yo-yo Club, bouncing between the top two divisions for the next several years.
• After a short spell in the Southern League structure, the Wood were back in the Isthmian League Premier and won promotion to the Conference South in 2010 for the first time in their History.
• The Club have reached the FA Cup second round proper twice in their history (1996/97 and 1997/98), but have never reached the third round.

Did you know? Boreham Wood's Meadow Park hosts Arsenal Ladies and Arsenal Academy matches. Also used to host Watford reserve games.

The Squad

Goalkeepers – James Russell, James Courtnage, Daniel Macateer.

Defenders – Charlie O'Loughlin, Mark Jones, Sam Doolan, Jerome Jibodu, Ben Nunn, Kyle Thompson, Callum Reynolds.

Midfielders – Luke Garrard, Robert Hastings, Karl Brown, Mario Noto, Sam Cox, Jake Hall, Mark Bentley, Greg Morgan, Graeme Montgomery, Matty Whichelow, Ricky Shakes.

Attackers – Calum Willock, Donovan Simmonds, Jake Wooley, Raheem Stirling Parker.

Last five matches

The Wood have struggled so far this season, and have picked up just one win on their travels – a 2-0 victory at Tonbridge Angels on the opening day. There has not been less than two goals in a match involving Boreham Wood this season.

Farnborough 2-0 Boreham Wood – 17.09.13

Boreham Wood 2-0 Gosport Borough – 14.09.13

Weston Super-Mare 3-0 Boreham Wood – 07.09.13

Boreham Wood 0-3 Eastleigh – 31.08.13

Staines Town 3-1 Boreham Wood – 26.08.13

LWLLL

Scored: 3

Conceded: 11

Last time out

Farnborough 2-0 Boreham Wood

A goal in each half from Scott Donnelly was enough for the hosts.

The dead ball specialist had a perfect opportunity on 25 minutes and took full advantage after Mark Bentley conceded a free kick 30 yards out. The striker found the top corner perfectly.

In an open game, both sides created chances but it wasn't until injury time that the game was killed off when Donnelly struck home a penalty.

Attendance: 338

Key man

Donovan Simmonds. The service to the striker will need to be good, and he'll need to be putting chances away as the Fleet look to bounce back from defeat.

Team news

Former Fleet players Ricky Shakes and Calum Willock have been missing from the line up in recent matches, and it is unknown whether they will be in the squad against the Fleet. Manager Ian Allinson should have a near full squad to choose from.

Now let's take a look at the Fleet...

The Squad

Goalkeepers – Preston Edwards, Brandon Hall.

Defenders – Aiden Palmer, Joe Howe, Osei Sankofa, Shane Huke, Paul Lorraine ©.

Midfielders – Michael Corcoran, Tom Phipp, Stacy Long, Dean Rance, Daryl McMahon, Cesc Fakinos, Anthony Cook, Dominic Green, Chris Sessegnon (on loan at Cray Wanderers).

Attackers – Ben May (injured), Billy Bricknell, Michael Thalassitis (on loan from Stevenage), Alex Osborn (on loan from Dagenham), Andy Pugh (on loan from Cambridge United).

Last five matches

The Fleet have picked up just eight points in their opening eight matches, with their only victory coming against bottom club Dorchester Town.

Ebbsfleet United 0-2 Chelmsford City – 17.09.13

Basingstoke Town 2-2 Ebbsfleet United – 14.09.13

Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Bath City – 07.09.13

Dorchester Town 1-3 Ebbsfleet United – 31.08.13

Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Maidenhead United – 26.08.13

Last time out

Ebbsfleet United 0-2 Chelmsford City.

The Fleet slumped to a disappointing defeat in front of new owner Dr. Abdulla Al-Humaidi.

Chelmsford, on a run of four straight defeats, limited the Fleet to long range efforts as they produced a brilliant away performance that lifted them outside of the relegation zone.

Rob Edmans proved a handful all night and finally got his reward in the 73^rd minute when he got on the end of a Charlie Henry cross to head firmly into the bottom corner, leaving Preston Edwards no chance. His strike partner grabbed the second goal eight minutes from time.

Tom Derry, on loan from Gillingham, was the catalyst in a brilliant breakaway from the visitors as he drove forward and played a ball out wide for Bagasan Graham. The young winger produced a great ball along the floor and Derry got on the end of it to send the travelling fans wild.

The defeat left the Fleet in 16^th place in the League.

Attendance: 696.

Key man

Dean Rance. The young midfielder has been in brilliant form for the Fleet lately. His drive and determination in the middle of the park is key for the Fleet. The attacking side of midfield hasn't produced much for the Fleet. A playmaker in alongside him will compliment him very well and could work wonders for the side.

Team news

Ben May (back) is still missing. Michael Corcoran (groin) could return, while Andy Pugh goes straight into the squad after signing on loan from Cambridge United for a month.

Previous meetings

The two Clubs didn't meet competitively until February, 1998 when the Fleet lost 4-1 away from home. The Fleet lead the head-to-head between the two sides. In six matches at Stonebridge Road against Boreham Wood, the Fleet have won four of those, drawn one, and lost one.

Fleet wins: 7

Boreham Wood wins: 4

Draws: 1

Last five meetings

Ebbsfleet United 2-2 Boreham Wood – Blue Square Bet South – 05.03.11

Ebbsfleet United 3-0 Boreham Wood – FA Cup – 23.10.10

Boreham Wood 0-1 Ebbsfleet United – Blue Square Bet South – 16.10.10

Gravesend and Northfleet 1-3 Boreham Wood – FA Trophy – 14.01.06

Gravesend and Northfleet 0-1 Boreham Wood – Ryman Premier – 20.04.02

How the bookies see it

The Fleet are EVENS to win this match with Ladbrokes. The visitors are 12/5 and a draw is 9/4. If you fancy the Fleet to grab a 2-1 victory, then odds for that are 15/2.

Bet Victor have the Fleet slight favourites at 21/20 with the visitors at 5/2. A draw is also 5/2. If you think Boreham Wood can repeat what Chelmsford did on Tuesday (2-0 win) then the odds for that are 18/1.

If you're able to attend the game, then admission prices are as follows:

Adults - £10

Concessions (students, OAPs) - £8

Under 16s - £5

Under 12s – FREE with a paying adult.

If you're unable to attend the game for whatever reason, then follow @EUFCofficial, @Boreham_WoodFC or @FleetAdventures for pre-match talk, match updates and post match reaction.

Enjoy the game.

Up the Fleet!

Ebbsfleet United 0-2 Chelmsford City; The disappointment continues

Ebbsfleet United slumped to a disappointing 2-0 defeat at home to Chelmsford City on Tuesday. The Clarets, who were on a run of four straight losses, produced the perfect away performance against a Fleet side who looked lost.

Manager Steve Brown made one change to the side that drew away at Basingstoke. Michael Corcoran, who limped off, was replaced by winger Dominic Green. That meant there was a place for Tom Phipp on the bench – not that it mattered.

The Club's new owner Dr Abdulla Al-Humaidi was in attendance for his first ever 'Fleet match. He'd flown over from Kuwait for the match, and must be very disappointed with what he saw, just like the fans in attendance.

The Chelmsford fans had come down in high spirits despite their poor start and made themselves heard from start to finish. It was good to have a set of away fans at Stonebridge Road who actually contributed to the atmosphere. The Fleet fans were in good voice to begin with too.

The opening exchanges were quite scrappy, with both sides getting hold of the ball but not doing an awful lot with it. The Fleet created a half chance as Michael Thalassitis headed Daryl McMahon's cross wide.

The first real chance of the match didn't come until after the fifteen minute mark. McMahon received the ball on the edge of the area. His initial shot was well blocked by a Chelmsford defender. His follow up shot got a bit closer, as it dipped just over the crossbar.

Lanky striker Rob Edmans was proving a handful for the Fleet defenders and his presence was beginning to show as he rose highest from a free-kick. Preston Edwards gathered his flick on comfortably.

A lapse in concentration at the back for the Fleet allowed Chelmsford in. Edmans effort was weak and young midfielder Charlie Henry refused to give up as he chased the ball down and shot from a tight angle, forcing Edwards into a reflex save.

As the game begun to open up, the visitors got more and more into the game and Tom Derry got in behind the Fleet defence, but dragged his effort wide.

Former Chelmsford winger Anthony Cook was giving 100% as usual, but he didn't have as much luck during this match as the away defence held firm. His free kick was well parried by 'keeper Carl Pentney. The last chance of the half fell to Dean Rance, who's effort from outside the box was saved by Pentney.

The second half started in the same fashion as the first. Both sides having the ball, but neither being able to create anything.

The Fleet got a free-kick on the edge of the area, and Green's low shot was deflected and brilliantly saved by the feet of Pentney.

Edmans continued to cause problems for the Fleet defence as he sent a header wide from eight yards out.

You'd think the defence would learn, but no. The tallest player on the pitch was repeatedly given time and space, and wasn't picked up enough by the defenders. In typical fashion, he made them pay. Good work from winger Basagan Graham gave Henry some space down the right, and his cross found Edmans unmarked eight yards out, who made no mistake as he guided his header out of the reach of Edwards and into the bottom corner.

The Fleet were almost level soon after when McMahon's free kick struck the inside of the post and bounced clear, but the visitors wrapped the game up eight minutes from time. A brilliant counter attack from Chelmsford was finished off by on-loan striker Derry, after a pass from Graham. The goal sent Chelmsford fans wild, and it was no more than they deserved. It was the perfect away performance.

The Fleet, however, have shown no signs of improving and fans are beginning to lose patience. The only win of the season came against a side bottom of the league with just one point. It's not good enough, and the fans let the team and management know after the game with some boos and harsh words.

The result has seen Chelmsford move out of the drop zone and Ebbsfleet's next opponents (Boreham Wood) drop in. The Fleet sit in 16^th place with eight points from eight matches.

Fleet: Edwards, Howe, Lorraine, Huke, Palmer, Green (Osborn), Rance, McMahon, Cook, Bricknell, Thalassitis.

Subs not used: Hall, Sankofa, Long, Phipp.

Clarets: Pentney, Sampayo, Maduako, Webb, Redwood, Henry, Davis (Rainford), Hughes, Graham, Edmans (Brayley), Derry.

Subs not used: (Sam) Long, Nicolau, St Amie.

Attendance: 696. 

Ebbsfleet United v Chelmsford City.

Ebbsfleet United welcome old friends Chelmsford City to Stonebridge Road this Tuesday evening, still looking for their first home win of the season. The Clarets are searching for their first away victory of the season.

Let's take a look at our visitors...

Chelmsford City FC

Founded – 1878

Nickname – The Clarets

Ground – Melbourne Park

Manager – Dean Holdsworth

Captain – Mark Hughes

Last season's finish - 5^th

Current position – 20^th

• Chelmsford FC were founded in 1878 by members of the Chelmsford Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. The reason for the Club being established was to give the players something to do during the winter.
• Won the Essex Senior Cup for the first time in 1892/93
• Became founder members of the North Essex League in 1895, but left five years later to join the South Essex League.
• The Club was closed down in 1938 and reformed as Chelmsford City FC, in order to become professional and join the Southern League. They took over Chelmsford's New Writtle Street ground.
• In their very first season as Chelmsford City, they reached the Fourth round of the FA Cup, losing 6-0 to Birmingham City after beating Kidderminster Harriers, Darlington and Southampton in the first three 'proper' rounds. They scored 11 goals in those opening rounds, conceding just two. They applied to join the Football-League at the end of that season, but only received one vote.
• The Clarets transferred to the Isthmian Division in 2004 and gained promotion to the Conference South in the 2007/08 season.
• Chelmsford reached the FA Cup second round three seasons in a row from 2010, and have lost in four play-off semi finals in five seasons.

Did you know? Despite being called Chelmsford City since 1938, Chelmsford itself didn't gain City status until 2012.

The Squad

Goalkeepers – Carl Pentney, Tommy Forecast.

Defenders – Mark Haines, Jide Maduako, Ben Sampayo, Nicky Nicolau, Leon Redwood, Danny Webb.

Midfielders – Tom Davis, Nathan Ferguson, Bagasan Graham, Mark Hughes ©, Sam Long, Jack Paxman, Dave Rainford, Christian Smith, Charlie Henry.

Attackers – Jeff Goulding, Bertie Brayley, Tom Derry, Rob Edmans, Kieran St Amie, Joe Ward.

Last five matches

Chelmsford, like the Fleet, have had a poor start to the season picking up just four points in their opening six matches.

Chelmsford City 0-2 Whitehawk – 14.09.13

Hayes and Yeading 4-0 Chelmsford City – 07.09.13

Chelmsford City 1-2 Weston Super-Mare – 31.08.13

Tonbridge Angels 2-1 Chelmsford City – 26.08.13

Chelmsford City 3-2 Staines Town – 24.08.13

LLLLW

Scored: 5

Conceded: 12

Last time out

Chelmsford City 0-2 Whitehawk.

The Clarets slumped to their fourth defeat in a row as they lost to new boys Whitehawk.

Both sides created chances, but the first goal of the game didn't come until the 35^th minute when Tommy Fraser's cross from the left was met by former Hayes defender Tom Cadmore, who made no mistake as he steered his header into the goal.

Former Clarets defender Sami El-Abd almost made it two with a header from close range, but former Fleet striker Jacob Erskine did secure the points with 11 minutes left on the clock. After beating the offside trap, he slid the ball under Tommy Forecast in the Clarets goal for his first of the season.

The defeat left Chelmsford in 20^th place in the Division, while the Hawks moved up to 13^th.

Attendance: 587

Key player

Jeff Goulding is key for the Clarets. The former Aldershot striker has hit three goals so far and will be looking to add to that as soon as possible. The Clarets are desperate for a win, and Goulding could be the man to bring them that.

Team news

Defender Mark Haines is said to have been struggling with his groin this week, so could miss the trip to Stonebridge Road. New signings Jide Maduako and Charlie Henry are in contention to make his debut for the Clarets while Jeff Goulding plays his last match before serving a one game suspension.

Now let's look at the Fleet...

The Squad

Chelmsford fans will be well aware of a few of the Fleet players, including former players Aiden Palmer, Anthony Cook and Billy Bricknell.

Goalkeepers – Preston Edwards, Brandon Hall.

Defenders – Joe Howe, Aiden Palmer, Osei Sankofa, Paul Lorraine ©, Shane Huke.

Midfielders – Tom Phipp, Stacy Long, Anthony Cook, Dean Rance, Daryl McMahon, Michael Corcoran, Dominic Green, Cesc Fakinos, Chris Sessegnon (on loan at Cray Wanderers)

Attackers – Ben May, Billy Bricknell, Alex Osborn (on loan from Dagenham), Michael Thalassitis (on loan from Stevenage)

Last five matches

The Fleet are the Skrill South draw specialists so far, with five draws in their opening seven matches. Their one win came at bottom Club Dorchester Town. Can they record their first home win of the season and start a winning run?

Basingstoke Town 2-2 Ebbsfleet United – 14.09.13

Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Bath City – 07.09.13

Dorchester Town 1-3 Ebbsfleet United – 31.08.13

Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Maidenhead United – 26.08.13

Eastbourne Borough 1-1 Ebbsfleet United – 24.08.13

DDWDD

Scored: 8

Conceded: 6

Last time out

Basingstoke Town 2-2 Ebbsfleet United.

Shane Huke's second goal in two games rescued a point for the Fleet with pretty much the last kick of the match at the Camrose.

The Fleet took the lead in the third minute when Dean Rance's audacious effort from thirty yards caught Louis Wells off guard. The keeper got a touch, but couldn't keep it out. The former Staines Town shot stopper made a couple of fine saves in the first half to keep the score down, and the 'Stoke outfield took full advantage.

Manny Williams' nicely placed effort from around twelve yards out was put out of the reach of Preston Edwards and into the bottom corner. The sides went in level despite the Fleet's dominance.

The Fleet had been slow starters in the second half of matches this season, but this match was different. The boys in white came out all guns blazing and it took some brilliant stops from Wells to keep the scores level. Once again, the hosts took full advantage.

Wes Daly's corner was met by the head of former Fleet fan favourite Neil Barrett, who guided the ball past Preston Edwards in the Fleet goal.

It looked as though Barrett had got one over on his former team and given Basingstoke yet another home win until Huke stepped forward in the 94^th minute. The central defender put Wells under immense pressure from a high ball in and he eventually bundled the ball home. The home players were furious as they thought Wells was fouled, but the goal stood, much to the delight of the visiting supporters.

The point left the Fleet in 15^th place in the Division while Basingstoke stayed within the play-off positions.

Attendance: 371.

Key player

Anthony Cook. The influential winger has been in fine form for the Fleet so far this season and playing his former Club should really spur him on. He's shown excellent ability so far in both crossing and shooting, and his passion on the pitch is second to none. A really vital player for the Fleet.

Team news

The Fleet look set to be without Ben May again. The former Dover striker has been struggling all season and most of pre-season with a back injury. Michael Corcoran limped off against Basingstoke, and it is unknown whether he will be in the squad. Other than that, Steve Brown should have a near full squad to choose from.

Previous matches

Ebbsfleet/Gravesend and Chelmsford go back a very long way, with the first competitive meeting between the sides coming in the Southern League way back in September 1946. Chelmsford ran out 3-2 winners at Stonebridge Road. The Fleet's biggest victory against the Clarets came back in 1955; a 5-0 victory at Stonebridge Road, however Chelmsford trump that as they recorded a 7-1 victory against the Fleet in 1960. The two have thrown up some cracking matches in recent seasons.

The two Clubs have met 77 times competitively, and the head-to-head is tied.

Fleet wins: 31

Chelmsford wins: 31

Draws: 15

Last five meetings

Ebbsfleet United 2-1 Chelmsford City – Blue Square Bet South - play-offs - SF - 2^nd leg – 08.05.11

Chelmsford City 1-4 Ebbsfleet United – Blue Square Bet South – play-offs – SF- 1^st leg – 03.05.11

Ebbsfleet United 1-3 Chelmsford City – Blue Square Bet South – 22.04.11

Chelmsford City 2-3 Ebbsfleet United – Blue Square Bet South – 26.02.11

Chelmsford City 1-0 Gravesend and Northfleet – FA Cup – 28.10.06

Memory match

Don't worry Fleet fans, it's not all doom and gloom... Here's a little look back at THAT night in Chelmsford in 2011.

Chelmsford City 1-4 Ebbsfleet United.

It was a long season full of good, bad, and completely out of the blue moments. A comeback 3-2 victory at Chelmsford from 2-0 down, a dire 2-1 loss at home to Bromley, and Preston Edwards record nine second sending off at home to Farnborough, just to name a few.

The play-offs had arrived and there was room for optimism from both sides. Both had worked incredibly hard throughout the season and now one of them were to get a chance to be rewarded for it. 2 matches, 180 minutes.

The Fleet's play-off campaign was some of the best football I have seen in my short time watching the Club; Absolutely outstanding. The attacking intent shown from start to finish, was nothing short of remarkable.

Most would have taken a draw at Melbourne Park to take back to Stonebridge Road but from the start, it always looked likely that the Fleet would walk away with a win. Ricky Shakes, Calum Willock and Tom Phipp all went close in the opening stages of the match, and the Fleet got their reward on 21 minutes.

Willock brilliantly held the ball up, giving Michael West time to make his run into the box. The young midfielder made no mistake from Willock's lay-off, as he controlled the ball and struck it past Carl Pentney in the Clarets goal. Four minutes later, 'Westy' doubled his, and the Fleet's tally.

Shakes put in a brilliant ball from the right, and West hit the ball past Pentney once more. The Fleet were in control of the game, and should have had a man advantage at the 40 minute mark. Last man Sami El-Abd fouled Willock in the box, clearly stopping a goalscoring opportunity, and the linesman flagged for the foul, although the ref ignored it and play continued. The hosts took advantage of that and pulled a goal back on the stroke of half-time as Ricky Modeste's header beat Daren Hawkes in the Fleet goal.

The Clarets came out firing in the second half but a brilliant (nervy!) defensive performance kept them at bay allowing the Fleet's attack to finish the game off.

Derek Duncan's teasing ball in from the left was met down low by Shakes, who guided his header past the keeper and the winger was at it again two minutes from time. Through on goal with just the keeper to beat, he confidently struck past Pentney, sending the travelling fans behind the goal absolutely crazy.

If it wasn't for Pentney in the second half, the Fleet's lead would have been quite a bit bigger! 4-1 was sufficient though, as the Fleet finished off the tie at Stonebridge Road to take a 6-1 aggregate victory and set up a final with Farnborough, who beat Woking. With 2,158 Fleet fans at Farnborough's Rushmoor Stadium, it was a fine occasion as the Fleet ran out 4-2 winners.

How the bookies see it

Ladbrokes have the Fleet at 17/20 favourites with the Clarets at 27/10. A draw for this game sees odds of 5/2. The Fleet's favourite score so far (1-1) sees odds of 6/1.

Bet Victor have the Fleet favourites at 10/11 with the visitors at an impressive 3/1. Odds for a draw are 5/2. If you fancy the Clarets to grab a sneaky 1-0 win then the odds for that are 12/1.

If you're able to make the match, admission prices are as follows:

Adults - £10

Concessions (Students, OAPs) - £8

Under 16s - £5

Under 12s – FREE with a paying adult.

If you're unable to attend the game, then follow @EUFCOfficial, @OfficialClarets, or @JoeGlidewell for match updates and post-match reaction.

Enjoy the game.

Up the Fleet!

Basingstoke Town 2-2 Ebbsfleet United

 

Basingstoke Town 2-2 Ebbsfleet United

Ebbsfleet United picked up yet another draw in the Skrill South, as a last gasp Shane Huke goal denied high flyers Basingstoke Town.

The Fleet made two changes to the side that drew to Bath City, with Dean Rance and Michael Thalassitis coming in to replace Stacy Long and Alex Osborn. Thalassitis missed the visit of Bath due to international duty with Cyprus U21s.

The 'Stoke forced Preston Edwards into an early save, but it was all Fleet from then on and the visitors grabbed the first goal of the game after just three minutes. The ball fell to Rance 30 yards out, and his speculative effort caught Louis Wells off guard. Despite getting a touch to it, the former Dartford and Staines goalkeeper couldn't quite keep it out.

The Fleet were putting pressure on the 'Stoke defence and the chances were beginning to come. Daryl McMahon had a free-kick comfortably saved by Wells, and then a terrific double stop kept the Fleet's lead at one.

Thalassitis was proving a handful for the 'Stoke defence and Anthony Cook was lively as usual. McMahon again went close, as his drive went just over. The hosts were having to ride their luck a bit, and Michael Corcoran had the Fleet's last chance of the half as he headed over from a Cook free-kick.

In typical Fleet fashion, they conceded. Manny Williams received the ball twelve yards out, and made no mistake as he slotted past Edwards in what was only the 'Stoke's second meaningful shot on target. Despite controlling most of the half, the Fleet failed to take their chances and the two sides went into the interval all square.

The Fleet came out for the second half and started in the same fashion as the first; in total control, which would have come as a surprise to many, seen as the Fleet have been slow starters to the second half of matches so far this season. It took a brilliant block from a defender to deny Billy Bricknell a goal, and Rance fired a shot just wide of the goal from the edge of the area.

Cook was growing into the game even more, and his tidy cross from the right was met by the head of Bricknell. Fortunately for the hosts, the crossbar denied the former Dover striker and Cook then tried a cheeky backheel, which was easily gathered by the in-form Wells.

Dominic Green came on soon after and replaced Michael Corcoran, who limped off, and it didn't take long for the winger to get into the game. Some fine work down the right produced a good chance for Thalassitis, but the striker could only head wide. Green was at it again as he produced another cross for Thalassitis. This time, the striker was expertly denied by Wells in the 'Stoke goal.

Cook hit two shots straight at the grateful keeper, and that put an end to the Fleet's spell of dominance.

Very much like the first half, and most other games this season, the Fleet were made to pay for not taking their chances. This time it was a former Fleet player who made them pay, as midfielder Neil Barrett rose highest to head home Wes Daly's corner.

It looked as though the Fleet were heading for their second loss of the season until the fourth minute of injury time. A ball into the box put Wells under pressure, and for the first time in the match he really struggled to deal with it, and centre back Huke was there to stab home from two yards out after being fouled by a Basingstoke defender. The travelling contingent were delighted with the goal, but the home players were furious as they surrounded the referee for what they believed to be a foul on the 'keeper. The goal was given, and the game ended 2-2.

The Fleet have now drawn five of their seven League matches and sit 15th in the Skrill South. They face an out of form Chelmsford City on Tuesday at Stonebridge Road, still looking for their first home win of the season.

Fleet: Edwards, Howe, Lorraine, Huke, Palmer, Cook, Corcoran (Green), Rance, McMahon, Thalassitis, Bricknell (Osborn).

Subs not used: Hall, Sankofa, Long.

Attendance: 371.

Basingstoke Town v Ebbsfleet United

The Fleet will look to record their second win of the season as they travel to Hampshire to face Basingstoke Town, who are unbeaten at home so far this campaign.

Let's take a look at our hosts...

Basingstoke Town FC

Founded – 1896

Nickname – The 'Stoke

Ground – The Camrose

Manager – Jason Bristow

Last season's finish - 14^th

Current position - 4th

• Basingstoke were founded in 1896 after a merger between Aldworth United and Basingstoke Albion.
• Won the Hampshire Senior Cup for the first time and reached the Southern League structure at the end of the 1970/71 season, and followed it up the following season with their first appearance in the FA Cup first round proper; a 5-1 loss at home to Northampton Town, watched by 3,400 spectators, the record at the time.
• Switched to the Isthmian League in 1988
• Reached the FA Cup second round in 1989/90, losing 3-2 at home to Torquay United.
• Gained promotion to the newly structured Conference South in 2003/04, due to Hendon opting out of joining the Division.
• Local businessman Rafi Razzak became chairman of the Club in 2008. Razzak was owner of local IT company Centerprise International.
• Finished in the play-offs in 2011/12, losing to Dartford in the Semi Final.
• The 'Stoke have won the Hampshire Senior Cup five times in their History, with the latest coming in 2008.
• Highest attendance at the Camrose is 5,085 for an FA Cup first round match with Wycombe Wanderers in 1997. The highest League attendance at the Camrose is 2,810, a match against Aldershot Town getting the bumper crowd on Boxing Day of 1998.

Did you know?

Basingstoke Town's Club motto is 'Vestigia Nulla Retrorsum', which means 'No stepping back'.

The Squad

Goalkeepers – Louis Wells, Joe McDonnell

Defenders – Ross Adams, Jay Gasson, Adam Green, Kieran Maylen, Chris Paterson, David Ray, Robbie Rice, Nathan Smart

Midfielders – Neil Barrett, Nathan Campbell, Alex Charlick, Wes Daly, Simon Dunn, Shaun McAuley

Attackers – Kezie Ibe, Robbie Matthews, Jordace Holder-Spooner, Manny Williams

Last five matches

Basingstoke's last five matches include three home matches, which have produced three wins. The 'Stoke lost both of their away matches in this period, but they're certainly not a side that the Fleet, or anybody, should be underestimating.

Whitehawk 1-0 Basingstoke Town

Basingstoke Town 2-1 Staines Town

Weston Super-Mare 1-0 Basingstoke Town

Basingstoke Town 2-0 Eastleigh

Basingstoke Town 2-1 Concord Rangers

LWLWW

Scored: 6

Conceded: 4

Key players

Look no further than Neil Barrett. As mentioned in a previous piece, I felt the midfielder still had something to offer at Conference Premier level, so to drop down to the South really shocked me. He's grabbed his first goal in 'Stoke colours, and will have something to prove to Fleet manager Steve Brown, who chose not to retain him at the start of the season. Former Dartford and Staines Town goalkeeper Louis Wells will need to be on form against a frustrated Fleet attack, who have been a little shy in front of goal at the start of the season. It's surely only a matter of time before it all 'clicks'...

Team news

Manager Jason Bristow should have a near full squad to choose from.

Last time out

Whitehawk 1-0 Basingstoke

A first half goal from defender Sami El-Abd was enough to give the Hawks all three points in Sussex.

The goal came midway through the first half when El-Abd got on the end of a Tommy Fraser free-kick.

Although the 'Stoke were the better side in the second half, they failed to break down a stubborn Whitehawk defence and suffered their second loss of the season.

Attendance: 334

Now let's take a look at the Fleet...

The Squad

Goalkeepers – Preston Edwards, Brandon Hall,

Defenders – Joe Howe, Osei Sankofa, Aiden Palmer, Paul Lorraine, Shane Huke

Midfielders – Anthony Cook, Dominic Green, Tom Phipp, Cesc Fakinos, Stacy Long, Michael Corcoran, Dean Rance, Daryl McMahon, Chris Sessegnon (on loan at Cray Wanderers)

Strikers – Billy Bricknell, Ben May, Alex Osborn (on loan from Dagenham), Michael Thalassitis (on loan from Stevenage)

Last five matches

The Fleet have been quite disappointing so far this season, and will need to up their game if the play-offs are the aim for this season. The last five games have produced just one win, with one loss and three draws. In this period, the Fleet also recorded a victory in Round One of the Kent Senior Cup, beating Tonbridge Angels 3-0. They face Sittingbourne away in Round Two.

Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Bath City

Dorchester Town 1-3 Ebbsfleet United

Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Maidenhead United

Eastbourne Borough 1-1 Ebbsfleet United

Dover Athletic 2-1 Ebbsfleet United

DWDDL

Scored: 7

Conceded: 6

Key players

In a squad that hasn't shown much urgency so far this season, Anthony Cook and Billy Bricknell have been the two who are holding it up for the Fleet. The latter appears to have got over his back troubles that kept him out of the first game of the season, and with two goals to his name already he'll be looking to add to that tally as soon as possible, as the Fleet look to rise up the League. Cook has been in excellent form for the Fleet so far, putting in maximum effort in every game and producing a couple of stunning goals.

Team news

Injury prone striker Ben May could be missing from the squad again, but Michael Thalassitis looks set to return after missing the uninspiring draw against Bath due to International duty. The striker played for Cyprus U21s in their matches with Italy and Serbia.

Last time out

Ebbsfleet United 1-1 Bath City.

It was the same old story for the Fleet at Stonebridge Road. After a dominant first half only produced one goal, former Fleet defender Will Salmon scored a second half equaliser as the Fleet recorded their fourth draw in six games.

Daryl McMahon's floated free kick found Shane Huke unmarked in the box as he rose to head home. It was no more than the Fleet deserved but once again, they failed to make the pressure count as they went into the break with a slender one goal advantage.

The second half was uninspiring from both sides, but it was the visitors who scored as the Fleet's failure to defend set pieces properly cost them. The ball fell to Salmon six yards out, who made no mistake as he gave Bath a share of the points.

Attendance: 850.

Previous matches

The Fleet first met Basingstoke Town competitively in 1972, and suffered a 1-0 loss away from home. The Fleet's highest victory against Basingstoke came in 2001, as they ran out 4-1 winners. Basingstoke's biggest victory against the Fleet came in the previous season, as they won 4-0.

The two Clubs have only played each other 20 times in competitive action, and the Fleet lead the head-to-head.

Fleet wins: 9

Basingstoke wins: 7

Draws: 4

Last five meetings

Basingstoke Town 1-2 Ebbsfleet United – Blue Square Bet South – 02.04.11

Ebbsfleet United 3-1 Basingstoke Town – Blue Square Bet South – 19.02.11

Gravesend and Northfleet 0-0 Basingstoke Town – Ryman League Premier – 06.04.02

Basingstoke Town 1-4 Gravesend and Northfleet – Ryman League Premier – 13.11.01

Basingstoke Town 4-0 Gravesend and Northfleet – Ryman League Premier – 05.05.01

If you are able to make the match at the Camrose, admission prices are as follows:

Adults: £12

Concessions: £8

Under 16s: £4

Under 11s: £2

Concessions include Over 60s, Students, Disabled, Unemployed, Active Servicemen and all Emergency Services with valid ID. It also applies to Season Ticket holders of Football-League and Premier League Clubs, on production of a valid Season Ticket.

If you are unable to make the match, then follow @EUFCOfficial, @Basingstoke_FC or @JoeGlidewell for match updates and post-match reaction.

Enjoy the game! 

Dorchester 1-3 Ebbsfleet; The Fleet finally win.

Ebbsfleet United recorded their first win of the season on Saturday as they beat Dorchester Town, who ended the game with nine men. Billy Bricknell's brace and Anthony Cook's superb solo effort was enough to see off the Magpies.

Fleet boss Steve Brown made one change to the team who drew 1-1 with Maidenhead the Monday before, with Bricknell coming in to replace winger Dominic Green. Influential midfielder Stacy Long was yet again on the bench.

As the sun shone on The Avenue pitch, it was the visitors who started the better with a string of chances coming early on. The Fleet's set pieces were hitting the target, but the early goal never came,

Alex Osborn, given another start after impressing against Maidenhead, had two brilliant chances in quick succession. His first effort, a shot from eight yards, was blocked off the line by Nick Crittenden and then a great header was expertly tipped over by 'keeper Alan Walker-Harris.

The referee, who wouldn't allow the game to flow, begun brandishing yellow cards left right and centre with Dean Rance and captain Paul Lorraine becoming victims early on.

In the opening four games, the Fleet weren't putting enough pressure on their opponents but they couldn't be accused of that against the Magpies. The reds were bombarding that goal and keeping up the attacking intent throughout the first half.

Cook had a speculative overhead kick tipped over by Walker-Harris, before Daryl McMahon had a long-range shot parried wide. The Irish midfielder had his best game for the Fleet so far as he got into some excellent positions and was always active, however he refused to use his weaker foot, which meant he wasn't as effective as he could have been.

The hosts only real chance of the half came from the Fleet's failure to defend set pieces. Crittenden's deep corner found an unmarked Ben Watson at the back post. Fortunately for the Fleet, he could only hit the side netting.

Bricknell hit an effort wide with Cook standing unmarked in the area. Cook showed his anger, and the pair argued for a few seconds. They soon made up though, when the two combined to put the Fleet ahead.

Cook's cross from the right flank found the striker, who rounded the defender and slotted into the far corner. The Fleet would argue that they should have been ahead long before they were, but all that mattered was getting that all important goal.

Charlie Clough was booked for the hosts shortly after, just before the whistle blew for half-time. The Fleet went in deservedly ahead.

The hosts come out in the second half and grew into the game, passing the ball around a lot better and looking like a side who wanted to win. Brandon Goodship forced Preston Edwards into a smart save, while Clough headed over. Just as the Magpies started to grow in confidence, Cook made an early entry for goal of the season.

The young winger picked up the ball 30 yards out and skipped past the defender before unleashing a bullet into the bottom corner, leaving the in-form keeper absolutely no chance! It's certainly worth a second look once the highlights are online!

The Fleet would have been hoping for a clean sheet, but six minutes later the hosts pulled a goal back. A corner, unsurprisingly, wasn't dealt with and Watson stabbed home from eight yards after Goodship's initial effort was parried by Edwards.

Shortly after, the in-form keeper turned villain when a weak back pass allowed Michael Thalassitis in. The on-loan striker tried to round the keeper, but was brought down right in front of the goal. Although the linesman didn't believe the keeper had done wrong, the referee pointed to the spot and brandished a red card.

After a delay, Thalassitis stepped up but sub goalkeeper Tim Sandercombe got down well to his right and produced a fine one-handed stop. After a brilliant penalty against Maidenhead the game before, it was a surprise to see such a poor penalty, although the delay didn't help. That was the striker's last contribution as he was replaced by midfielder Michael Corcoran.

With the game coming to an end, you'd have thought the Magpies would have thrown everything at it to get a draw, but it wasn't to be, as three minutes from time the Fleet restored their two goal advantage.

A cross field ball from sub Dominic Green found Cook in space, who flicked the ball over the defender and found Bricknell. The striker made no mistake as he placed his shot past Sandercombe into the bottom corner of the net. It was a brilliant finish to round off a solid Fleet performance.

The last thing of note, was Magpies defender Clough receiving his marching orders after a second yellow, for a foul on Cook. The defeat leaves the Magpies now with four losses from their opening five games and if it wasn't for Farnborough, they'd be rooted to the bottom.

A confidence boosting win for the boys in red, which is good going into next Saturday's game against Bath City, a side who shouldn't be underestimated. The Fleet will look to win their first game at Stonebridge Road.

Fleet: Edwards, Howe, Lorraine, Huke, Palmer, Cook, McMahon, Rance, Osborn (Green), Thalassitis (Corcoran), Bricknell.

Subs not used: Hall, Sankofa, Long.

Attendance: 422