Bridge Avenue boss pleased with form and about bringing midfielder Connor Witherspoon to club

Hornchurch manager Jimmy McFarlane is delighted with how his team is currently shaping up in Ryman North this season.

Urchins continued their fine form with an impressive 2-0 win at league leaders Cray Wanderers at Hayes Lane on Tuesday.

Dave Collis opened the scoring in the 42nd minute and Tobi Joseph doubled the lead after the break to seal victory.

Hornchurch find themselves in second place in the table, having played a game less than the south London outfit.

Cray had scored 33 times in 12 games before facing McFarlane’s team, but Urchins shut out the pacesetters and delivered a top performance to send another message to the rest of the league.

“We are in a good position,” said McFarlane. “I went to Cray to win and I said that beforehand, but it really was so important that we didn’t get beaten because it would’ve given them a little gap.

“After winning, we are only three points behind them now with a better goal difference and a game in hand. It’s early days, but if we are in this type of position come Christmas I will be happy.”

Young midfielder Connor Witherspoon made his league debut for Hornchurch on Tuesday after signing on loan from Ryman Premier side Enfield Town.

He played during the 1-0 loss to West Ham under-21s in a friendly at Bridge Avenue on Saturday as well and McFarlane is thrilled to have him at his disposal and discussed what the future could hold for the former East Thurrock ace.

“Connor is someone I have admired for a couple of years. I met his Dad a few seasons ago and he was in and out of the East Thurrock team,” he added.

“I actually saw his Dad last season too and I have always followed his career. I noticed he wasn’t getting in the Enfield side and we asked to take him here.

“They didn’t want to let him go, but we have a gentleman’s agreement that he will be with us for a month. He is certainly someone I would like to keep.

“He has fitted in well and if Enfield continue to do well and he can’t get in their team, maybe we can have him here.”

Alex Pike’s goal earned the young Hammers victory on Saturday as McFarlane included the likes of Calvin Poku, Charlie Dove, Paulius Ditkevicius and Callum Chafer in his side.

“It was great to give minutes to some players as playing is the best way to boost match fitness and I’d like to thank West Ham for coming,” said McFarlane, whose side were handed a trip to Colchester in the Essex Senior Cup third round draw this week.