Boro open account with derby win

Romford opened their account for the new season with a 2-0 win at Ilford yesterday.

After seeing his side lose their first three league and cup outings this term, Boro boss Paul Martin made nine changes to his starting line-up at Cricklefield Stadium.

And the moves paid off as Romford claimed the Ryman Division One North points against the Foxes.

There were chances at both ends in the first half, but Boro took the lead on 54 minutes when Jack Barry was pushed in the box and Hussain Isa netted from the penalty spot.

The home side were reduced to 10 men in the process and Boro made them pay in injury time when Lewis Francis found Michael Summat, whose pass found Toran Senghore to curl home his shot.

Romford return to action with a home match against Wroxham at Ship Lane on Sunday.

*Neighbours Hornchurch, meanwhile, had to settle for a point at Conference South rivals Billericay.

Sam Lechmere put Blues ahead on 12 minutes, but Urchins hit back midway through the second half as Leon McKenzie struck.

Jimmy McFarlane’s men had the better of the exchanges at New Lodge but could not force a winner and had to settle for their second draw in four outings this term.

They entertain Weston-super-Mare at Bridge Avenue on Saturday.