Tilbury won the Stan Veness Trophy for the first time since 1998 with a well deserved victory, with a single goal from Kurt Smith early in the first half.

On a bright and sunny afternoon in front of a healthy local derby crowd, Tilbury got back to winning ways after 2 indifferent results against Essex Senior League opposition

The all important goal came on 13 minutes when Emiel Aiken crossed from the right after an excellent advantage by the referee, found Smith on the edge of the area to hit home past Lamar Johnson. On 22 Jay Leader hit over from distance. It was a competitive opening and Tilbury caused problems on both flanks with good runs from Kurt Smith and Emiel Aiken. On 34 Tony Martin had a good effort, but was denied by former loanee Lamar Johnson, who blocked well. Early in the second half saw Johnson again in the action saving from Richmond, before Tony Martin blasting wide. On 77 Tilbury had another great chance when Hugo Jesus headed towards goal, but was denied by a goal-line save. In the final minute Grays who had pushed hard for the equaliser, saw another effort go just wide of Bogard's goal. Tilbury took the plaudits, to win only there second ever Stan Veness Trophy.

The game was also in aid of Great Ormond Street and a delighted George Hammond announced after the game that on the day £250 was donated.

After the game Coach Mark Edwards commented "Really pleased with the win, in particular the manner of the performance. we worked hard as a team and we were well organised. I think we are progressing well and the fitness of the boys is good"

Tilbury are at home again on Tuesday evening when they entertain Sevenoaks 7.45pm kick off.

Tilbury Squad:
Neil O'Sullivan, Clark Bogard, Bradley Webb, Jimmy Cook, Conor Mead, Joe Nightingill, Matt Game, Jack Carlile, Emiel Aiken, Kurt Smith, Tony Martin, Neil Richmond, Ollie Hanlon, Hugo Jesus, Yusef Bello, Aziz Kanu, Andy Edmunds and Ben Austin