Written by Callum Rudman
Rocks Still at the Summit After Win Over Gas Recreation
East Thurrock CFC continued their impressive form at the top of the table with a commanding 2–0 home victory over Gas Recreation, in a match filled with attacking intent, controversy, and late drama.
The Rocks started on the front foot and nearly made an early breakthrough when Harry Salter burst through on goal. In a collision with the visiting goalkeeper, Salter was left on the ground — and in the aftermath, the Gas shot-stopper appeared to retaliate, pushing Salter’s head to the grass. After consulting with the assistant referee, who recommended a red card, the referee opted for leniency and let the keeper remain on the pitch — much to the frustration of the home supporters.
Despite the incident, East Thurrock maintained their composure. Persistent pressure and clever build-up play soon paid off when Salter, making up for the earlier altercation, calmly slotted home to give the hosts a deserved lead.
Gas tried to respond late in the first half, and Tommy Bruley had a nervy moment when he spilled a cross under pressure. Fortunately for the Rocks, their back line — marshalled by Faith Segemani and Louis Sharkey — reacted quickest to clear the danger and protect the one-goal advantage into the break.
The second half began much as the first had ended, with the Rocks on the front foot. Tommy Barnacle tested the keeper early with a low drive, and substitute Ross Barnes injected fresh energy into the attack, threatening with several efforts on goal.
As the visitors pushed forward in search of an equaliser, they became more threatening on the break — but it was the host who struck next. Barnes, a constant thorn in Gas Recreation’s side since his introduction, finally got his reward, doubling the Rocks’ lead and putting the game out of reach.
Tensions boiled over in the closing stages, with a heated exchange escalating into a scuffle. One Gas player saw red — literally — as the referee dismissed him for violent conduct in what was one of several flare-ups during a heated second half.
A composed performance from the hosts ensured they saw out the remaining minutes without further incident, securing another crucial three points to stay at the summit.
Next up is a top of the table clash, away to Great Bentley on Saturday 27/09/25.
LINEUP:
1 Tommy Bruley
3 Louis Sharkey
5 Faith Segemani
7 Bobby Reeman
8 Tommy Barnacle
11 Bailey Morris
14 Ray Snares
16 Kieran Case
17 Joey Purdy
20 Harry Prince
21 Harry Salter
SUBS:
2 Lewis Gardener
9 Ross Barnes
10 Kieron Miles
12 Zac Bussel
15 Kieran McGowan