The first thing to say about this one is what a fantastic result it really was, to get to the semi finals of any competition is an achievement but to combine that with getting one over on your local rivals at the same time, well that's just special.

The game in itself wasn't a fantastic one, on what was a freezing cold night at Mill field but it was certainly more about the result that was going to warm us up.

They started the brightest giving us a couple of early scares, but once we settled we grew into the game and were much the better team. A deserved half time lead thanks to Elbi's 28th minute opener ensured we went into the tea bar at half time happy.

We looked bright again after the break and I think the visitors started to get a bit frustrated as we passed the ball about in midfield, certainly Petrit Elbi was on the receiving end of some harsh treatment, he did well to keep his head.

Thurruck did then get an equaliser after a spell of pressure but we was still confident in getting the win as we was now playing some good football. And so it was to be, that man Marcus Elliot popping up at the right time after a great cross by Theo and we was back in front.

After that Thurruck just started to play long balls because I think they realised they wasn't going to out play us on the floor. The stand out stat after the game was 'long balls Aveley 8 Thurruck 20'!

And that was that, we was in the hat for the next round and they was sent back down Ship Lane.

It was great to see Danny Francis get some much needed game time as he's going to be a key player for our push for the play-offs and hopeful cup success.

One last thing to mention was this was the first game our new flag was aired, and it filled us with pride to see the Sons of Aveley flag flying, be sure to say hello when you see it at the next game and let's build on this and get behind the lads for the rest of the season. COYM!!

Tim Gardner.

Twitter- @TimGardnerNo1