Essex Senior Cup tie set for go-ahead

Hornchurch boss Jimmy McFarlane has a few selection problems for tonight’s Essex Senior Cup tie at Canvey.

Following their 3-1 win at Conference South rivals Hayes at the weekend, Urchins will travel to Park Lane for the rearranged fourth round fixture without Lewis Smith, newcomer Joe Tabiri and Duran Reynolds.

And McFarlane admitted it was far from ideal, for a competition he likes to take seriously.

“Wayne Gray and Paul Goodacre were out on Saturday and we’re very light tonight,” said McFarlane.

“Lewis picked up a little knock, Joe Tabiri wasn’t signed in time to play and Duran Reynolds is cup-tied.

“We haven’t got the biggest budget and the squad is a bit small. Eastleigh had about 10 players not even changed when they came to us the other week!”

Canvey grabbed a last-minute winner against Ryman Premier Division rivals Kingstonian on Saturday, thanks to Bradley Woods-Garness.

But Leon McKenzie netted twice in Hornchurch’s success at Hayes, with Frankie Curley also on target.

And McFarlane paid tribute to his in-form striker, adding: “Leon’s goals were brilliant, but his all-round performance was the most pleasing thing.

“He worked so hard and was clever in the last 10 minutes, up on his own, winning throw-ins and free-kicks.

“We’ve got four proven forwards, but if he fights for the shirt, he will keep it. It’s his to lose.”