Flanagan's Football Files

The clubs have had a break from league games for the two prestigious FA competitions.

They say it is the time of year when foxes teach their young to dig for food, well, the foxes of Cricklefield have certainly dug out two fantastic results, progressing in both the FA Cup and the Vase. Likewise, SOUL Tower Hamlets have also achieved the same.

Woodford came a cropper in the Vase against newcomers Lymore Gardens, who built on their tremendous start to life at Step 6 by defeating Woodford 1–0 in 75th minute.

Hackney Wick brought their shooting boots with them as they stormed to a 7–1 win in the Vase. They also progressed in the FA Cup, as did Great Wakering Rovers, former beaten finalists in the Vase, who started their campaign in style by knocking six past Wivenhoe Town.

Harwich & Parkeston and Hullbridge both faced Step 6 sides at home in the Vase with mixed results. Parkeston lost to Brimsdown, while Hullbridge Sports triumphed against founder ESL members Stansted.

Woodford Town at least had the consolation of making it four clubs from the league into the FA Cup, defeating Harlow at Ashtons.

Although clubs like to concentrate on the league, these cup competitions are just as important. Not only do they bring in much-needed finance to already stretched coffers, but the further you progress, the more the profile of both the club and the league is raised.

So, well done to all the clubs who have done the league proud! To those who gave their best but did not progress, there is always next year.