Ilford boss Allan Fenn was delighted his team made it two wins in their last three games with a 3-0 success away to Essex Senior League title chasers Basildon United.

Karolis Atutis and Wale Odedoyin netted for the Foxes in the first half before Luke Thomas secured the win shortly after the interval.

The result also meant Ilford became the first team to triumph in the league at the Bees since November and Fenn says his team were well worth the three points.

“I’m really pleased, not only with the result, but also with the approach, application, effort and work rate of the players,” said Fenn.

“Basildon are a very good side and were top on merit. They’ve done fantastically well this season, but I know we can beat anyone on our day and we did just that.

“We cause them problems with our strength and power throughout and that told in the final score.”

After a cagey opening, Atutis headed Ilford in front from a free kick in the 21st minute before Odedoyin joined him on the scoresheet nine minutes before half time.

And Fenn was pleased to take such a commanding lead into the break, adding that it showed the Foxes’ tactics were proving effective.

“We planned to frustrate Basildon early on and Wale was giving the opposition nightmares by chasing everything, turning bad balls into good balls,” added Fenn.

“Our midfield were dominating, winning every ball, so I think we deserved to lead at half time and it was great to score just before the break.”

Thomas rounded off the scoring eight minutes after the break with Fenn pleased that any fear of a Basildon comeback was swiftly ended.

“It was a great finish too and it was a pleasing performance from everyone involved. Both teams came out well at the start of the second half and Chris Clark had to make a great save, so it was good to put it to bed early on.”

Ned Keating
Ilford Recorder