Match Report by David Powell
(Image: Liam M via Twitter)

Canvey Island opened their 22/23 pre season with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Island neighbours Concord Rangers at Park Lane.

On a scorching hot afternoon, this was an even contest against the Gulls’ Conference South opponents.

Canvey gave a home debut to summer signing Reiss Chandler, who had a decent match at right back, alongside a number of triallists.

The visitors counted former Canvey midfielder Ryan Blackman amongst their ranks.

Bradley Sach had a looping header hit the top of the crossbar in a low key first half, with Concord responding with an effort of their own that hit the woodwork not long before the interval. A half of few clear-cut chances finished goalless.

The second half was a scrappy affair with both sides creating little in front of goal.

The heat and a plethora of substitutions made it something of a stop-start game, but Canvey created a couple of good opportunities as the game drifted towards the last ten minutes.

First, Evans Kouassi went on a mazy dribble into the penalty area and saw his shot deflected wide for a corner.

Moments later, Tobi Tinibu poked an effort inches wide of the near post from a left wing cross.

However, it was Concord who won the game in injury time. A left wing cross found Jack Thompson who fired a low shot into the corner of the net.

The next Pre-Season test see's the Gulls take on National League Southend United at Park Lane on Tuesday night.