Match Report by David Powell
(Image by KJA Sports Images)

Canvey Island fell to a penalty shootout defeat following a 1-1 draw with Bowers & Pitsea at the Len Salmon Stadium, as the hosts retained the Memorial Cup.

Bowers lead for much of the game, but a late Canvey equaliser forced a penalty shootout, which the Gulls eventually lost by 5 spot kicks to 4.

The hosts took a twelfth minute lead in a low key first half. An error at the back from the Gulls forced a break into the right channel and saw the ball crossed low to the far post for the home striker to apply a simple finish.

On another hot July day, Canvey were able to keep the ball well but could force little in the way of chances as the game ebbed on.

Canvey’s trialist keeper was forced into action just before half time and produced a fine stop to deny the Bowers forward after he found space in the penalty area.

The Gulls began to improve in the second half. Bowers’ keeper made a fine save early on, getting down low to push away Conor Hubble’s free kick as it riffled towards the bottom corner.

Canvey’s keeper was once again forced into and made several good saves to keep the game at 1-0. This allowed the team to push for an equaliser, which they found in the last five minutes. The Gulls will have likely never have scored a scrappier goal, as an almighty scramble in the six yard box saw the keeper save at least three times, as well as several blocks from various defenders. However, the ball eventually was deemed to have been dragged across the goal line by the referee.

Into the penalty shoot out and Hubble, Kouassi and a trialist converted early on, with Billy Knott having his penalty saved and another effort from the hosts clearing the bar, meaning the Gulls lead 3-1.

Another trialist and then Odei Martin Sorondo missed their kicks however, with Bowers proving clinical in the next two to take the game into sudden death.

Tobi Tinubu scored confidently to level after Bowers had scored, but after after the hosts converted again, another of Canvey's trialists crashed his penalty against the post to gift a 5-4 victory to Bowers, meaning they retained the Memorial Trophy.

Canvey continue their Pre-Season schedule this coming Tuesday night as they visit Isthmian North side Great Wakering Rovers.