Report by Freddie Facey

We made the perfect start to the afternoon when Creevy opened the scoring after just four minutes, giving the EssexBhoys an early advantage.

Owen Wells was called into action shortly afterwards, producing an important save to keep us ahead.

Our lead would not last long, however, as Corinthians levelled in the ninth minute before completing a quick turnaround just three minutes later to move 2-1 ahead.

We looked for an immediate response, with Dom O’Kane cutting inside onto his right foot in the 17th minute before seeing his effort saved by the hosts’ goalkeeper.

Before the break Catholic had another opportunity to level the match when Michael Bernier beat his man before forcing the Corinthians goalkeeper into action.

Despite a bright opening to the contest, we headed into half-time trailing 2-1.

Half-time: Corinthians 2-1 Catholic United

Changes followed early in the second half as Charlie McGinn replaced Michael Bernier, before Archie Armstrong was introduced in place of Callum Broom.

We continued to search for an equaliser. Tom Kearney sent a dangerous free-kick into the area in the 68th minute, but the goalkeeper rushed from his line to claim.

Three minutes later, McGinn did well to hold off his marker before sending his effort wide.
Another promising opportunity arrived in the 75th minute. Creevy produced some excellent footwork to break into the penalty area, with the hosts’ attempted clearance falling to McGinn, whose shot was saved.

With the EssexBhoys continuing to push for a leveller, Corinthians struck again in the 82nd minute to establish a 3-1 advantage.
Rocco Davis replaced Jack Dresner late on, but there would be no way back as the hosts saw out the remaining minutes.

The result brings our unbeaten start to the league campaign to an end, with attention now turning towards our next fixture.

Full-time: Corinthians 3-1 Catholic United
Venue: Stambridge Memorial Ground
Substitutions used: Josh Bird, Archie Armstrong, Charlie Mcginn, Rocco Davis