Morecambe 2-2 Daggers, Murphy Ogogo!

Trips to Morecambe are usually eventful for, The Daggers Scale - predominantly because our last two attempts to reach the Globe Arena have failed due to inclement weather. But on Saturday, we finally made it to the seaside resort to witness Dagenham & Redbridge salvage a last gasp draw courtesy of a Rhys Murphy 94th minute equaliser. That was only after Morecambe turned the game around through Mark Hughes and Ryan Williams following Abu Ogogo's strike early on.

With no risk of the game being called off due to the weather this time around, we set off from Chadwell Heath at around 8am for the long journey to Lancashire. After a quick change, we boarded our surprisingly empty Virgin Trains Service to Lancaster just shy of 9:30am. Another quick change onto possibly the most modern Northern Rail service I've ever been on (this was more 1990's rather than the usual 1960's feel); we arrived in Morecambe at around 12:30pm.

Upon arrival we opted to take the scenic route through the town by walking the one mile distance to the ground rather than calling a taxi. It allowed me the chance to make several judgements about the place. Namely one - it resembled God's waiting room, and two, it didn't seem like a very multicultural community. Then again, we only get a snapshot of the town in the time that we're there and as a result can only base our opinions on what we see in that short time.

The must see attraction on Morecambe seafront. 

After finding directions to the ground, we set about finding the seafront to guide our path to the stadium. It's fair to say Morecambe is quite a rundown place unfortunately. Dilapidated buildings line the streets; while a multitude of houses down the side roads remain unused and seemingly forgotten about. What Morecambe does have however, is a polo tower. Quite why I'm not sure, but nonetheless it amused me.

Having walked down the long, straight road for a good 20 minutes, we finally came across the Hurley Flyer Pub where we resided for an hour or so. With no Sky TV to show the lunchtime kick off's and ID required to buy a drink - we were devoid of both pre-match entertainment and a pre-match pint. Nevertheless it was a quaint little pub that I'd recommend to away fans if they can go without watching the early Saturday kick-off's.

With 15:00 approaching we exited the pub for the Globe Arena, which is situated literally a stone’s throw from the back of the pub itself. With a slick front entrance, not to dissimilar to the one at Burton Albion - it's easy to think that the Globe is just your run of the mill modern build. The away turnstiles quickly tell you otherwise, at just over a foot wide making it nigh on impossible for anyone above average build to enter into the stadium.

The vacant away terrace.

The away concourse is what I've come to expect of the stadiums in League Two. The cold concrete structure has a large amount of space complete with Sky TV in the corner to catch Jeff Stelling and co with the scores at half time. After a short twisting walk you reach the pitch, made to seem park like by the lack of a real stand on the far side. At this point I should mention we were housed in the corner of the main stand for the afternoon, rather than the away terrace that supporters who travel in large numbers receive.

Our stand which is named after the current chairman, Peter McGuigan, is all seated and also accommodates home fans. With a capacity of 2,200 it's completely undercover with no viewing restrictions and plenty of leg-room if you want to sit down. It also has reinforced sides to ensure that the sea-breeze doesn't give away supporters frostbite - a feature that is especially important in the winter months.

The rest of the ground feels a lot more "League Two", but that's not to say I didn't like it. The majority of the home support stands in the West Terrace which has a capacity of 2234, allowing for a great deal of noise to be generated when the Shrimps are doing well. The rest of the supporters are given the long uncovered terrace that is split into two parts on the far side. At just a few steps high, only the hardiest of souls would dare to set foot their on a rainy day - which begs the question, why was a roof not put over it when the stand was built?

Nevertheless we took our seats in the rather steep main stand, which gave us a terrific view across the town including the now famous, Polo Tower. The PA system blared out some terrific pre-match tunes, which were unfortunately somewhat out of place in a stadium that contained just over 1700 people. I was enjoying myself anyway. After the final song had played over the tannoy, the teams emerged from the tunnel to a warm ripple of applause. They lined up as follows...

Morecambe: Roche, Hughes, Diagne, Wright, Parrish, Kenyon, Williams, Drummond, Sampson, Ellison, Amond.

Dagenham & Redbridge: Lewington, Connors, Doe, Saah, Hoyte, Bingham, Ogogo, Howell, Hines, Murphy, Obafemi. Subs: Seabright, Woodall, Elito, Wilkinson, Femi, Reed, Saunders.

Wayne Burnett chose to name an unchanged side for the visit to Morecambe, allowing forward Afolabi Obafemi to retain his starting place. Jake Reed returned to the bench in place of winger Sean Shields, while Josh Scott remained missing due to illness/injury. 

With the teams announced and ready to go, the referee blew his whistle to indicate the start of the match. It started lively with Daggers on the attack, Zavon Hines seeing his shot deflected onto the post and behind for a corner. It was end to end action, with Jack Sampson testing Chris Lewington before Padraig Amond crashed his glancing header onto the crossbar and out for a goal kick.

With both sides pressing early on, it was inevitable that the match would quieten down as the half wore on. Even with that lull, Daggers still looked threatening and as a result took the lead with 20 minutes played. Neat build up down the right hand side released Afolabi Obafemi in the centre who threaded through for Abu Ogogo to slot the ball calmly through the legs of Barry Roche for a 1-0 lead. Incredibly it was Ogogo's fourth goal of the season, despite having only scored five in his previous four years at Daggers.

Nonetheless it was a deserved lead for the visitors who would now undoubtedly sit back inviting pressure from the Morecambe front line. And as predicted, that was the case. First the lively Kevin Ellison saw his shot comfortably saved by Lewington, before Amond tested Lewy who gathered at the second attempt. Even with the Shrimps pressure, Daggers were still able to carve out opportunities - Obafemi dragging a shot wide of the post on the half hour mark. 

From then on in it was all Morecambe and in particular Kevin Ellison, the chief orchestrator in the home sides onslaught. First he saw his fierce strike closed down well by Brian Saah, while minutes later Padraig Amond headed just over from Ryan Williams' corner that initially came about through Ellison down the right.

With the pressure increasing, Lewington was forced into two more brilliant diving saves before the break to deny both Ellison and in particular Rhys Williams, whose effort just before half-time was extraordinarily parried over the bar by the former Leatherhead 'stopper. Meanwhile ex-Macclesfield left-back Tony Diagne glanced over unmarked from a corner as Daggers just about held on following a succession of controversial free-kicks towards the end of the half.

As the ball was booted upfield, the referee who was being lambasted by Daggers fans blew for half time. It was an immense relief to hear the whistle for all concerned in the visiting camp, whose had been under siege for large parts of the second half. Quite how Morecambe hadn't gone in level at half-time was a mystery. But more bewildering was why Daggers had slumped so poorly in the latter stages of the second half after such an impressive start.

During the interval I decided to go downstairs to sample some of Morecambe's famed cuisine. They may officially have the best pies in the country, but what the surveys don't tell you is that they have the most overpriced hot-dogs. At £2.60 for a hot dog about as long as my index finger, in a bun that crumbles faster than Barnet's Conference promotion challenge - I was not impressed.

The second half restarts.

With that discouraging episode out of the way, the teams returned for the second half to yet more uplifting music. It's a shame really, because Morecambe's selection of tunes would be brilliant in a sell out stadium at full capacity, but with just under 2000 inside the Globe, it was always going to be hard to create a good atmosphere. Also, I'm pretty sure I mentioned that at the top of the Blog.

After the break, Morecambe continued from where they left off. Tony Diagne's ball in from the left was quickly cleared away, before Rhys Murphy was flagged offside for the umpteenth time up the other end. The Shrimps were finally rewarded for all of their hard work on 52 minutes, and unsurprisingly it was yet another set-piece goal conceded by Daggers.

A free-kick on the left from Ryan Williams found the unmarked head of ex-Accrington frontman Padraig Amond who glanced home past Chris Lewington to level things up at 1-1. Unusually it wasn't the poor defending for the goal that caused the most frustration for the away fans, more the contentious nature of free-kick in the first place. Most (including myself), felt that Gavin Hoyte had made a perfectly good challenge, but the referee who I'm obliged to say was having a shocker anyway, felt differently and ultimately awarded the free-kick. I know it doesn't excuse the poor defending, but you have to ask the question of whether it was even a free-kick in the first place. 

If you think for a minute that the Morecambe goal may have sprung Daggers back into action, you're wrong. If anything it worked as an incentive for the hosts to push on even more and go for a winner. The dangerous Kevin Ellison headed over from close range, before Diagne screwed a shot wide from distance and then Ellison again flashed one wide of the post. Sandwiched inbetween the Morecambe pressure Wayne Burnett managed to make a change - bringing on the bigger Brian Woodall for the pacey, but ineffective Afolabi Obafemi.

The Shrimps onslaught continued as the half wore on, Jack Sampson the latest to see an effort go wide of the post after he had worked himself into a good position. He was soon substituted for Joe Mwasile in a like for like change. With 15 minutes remaining the hosts came the closest yet, Diagne's ball in from the left headed goalward by Amond, but Lewington saved comfortably.

The fans in the open terrace had something to cheer about.

With the pressure steadily increasing throughout, a goal was inevitable and on 77 minutes, both sets of supporters were finally put out of their contrasting miseries. Ryan Williams' corner wasn't dealt with properly, leaving former Barnet midfielder Mark Hughes to scoop up and slam the ball home into the roof of the net from close range. No matter how much you expect the goal, it's always a killer when it goes in and unfortunately this time, we deserved it. 

That goal made it 2-1 to the hosts, leaving Daggers deflated after a dismal second half showing. Medy Elito was quickly introduced for the unusually poor Billy Bingham to try and give the visitors more attacking intent going into the final 10 minutes. Yet it was the hosts who continued to provide the majority of the pressure, Amond forcing another diving save from the overworked Lewington.

With time running out, Daggers launched a final onslaught in the closing five minutes and but for Barry Roche, would have been level. Gavin Hoyte's brilliant inswinging ball into the box was knocked back by Hines towards Rhys Murphy, who saw his tame header saved at point blank range by Roche to preserve the Morecambe lead. Brian Woodall followed up with the rebound but could only blast into an empty terrace. Surely it was Daggers' best and ultimately final chance of the afternoon.

77 Travelling Daggers fans.

But just as all looked lost, Daggers salvaged a late equaliser four minutes into stoppage time. Chris Lewington's hopeful punt upfield was latched onto by Hines who interchanged with Abu Ogogo before advancing into the box and squaring for Rhys Murphy to slam the ball home past Barry Roche and into the roof of the Morecambe net, sending the away fans delirious in the process. The 73 Daggers in the away stand couldn't believe it - myself included.

The players ran into the corner where several supporters had gathered to celebrate together, making a congregation of high octane emotions. There was the small matter of having to suppress a late Morecambe surge from the restart, but the referee quickly blew up to send Daggers home with a perhaps undeserved share of the spoils. Cue the biggest cheer you'll hear for an away point all season, with the exception of Scunthorpe last month where we did exactly the same thing for Luke Howell's last gasp equaliser.

Morecambe supporters quickly evacuated the Globe Arena, disconsolate that such a dominant performance had seen them come away with just the point. It also broke the clubs run of four successive victories, moving them outside of the play-off zone in the process. The Daggers faithful meanwhile remained, applauding the players and management team following a hard earned, but not deserved point.

It's an interesting one really. We dominated the opening 20 minutes, but after taking the lead we looked like a different side. There was a lack of urgency in all areas, we were second best all over. If not for Chris Lewington in particular during the first half, the scoreline could have looked a lot different.

Nevertheless we came away with a point, and maybe that's testament to our resolve this season. In past years I think that's the sort of game where we may have caved in completely and shipped three or four - but we didn't. We dug in at the end and that extra bit of quality that you pay for in Hines paid off. His dazzling bit of skill was his only really significant contribution all afternoon, but what a contribution it was. Coupled with Murphy's predatory striking instinct, we have a cracking pair of players going forward. Credit also needs to go to Abu Ogogo for notching yet another goal!

I have to admit though; I was very surprised with the selection of Obafemi up front instead of a more physical sort of player like Brian Woodall. I know we need pace, but away from home generally we've seemed to go for the approach that best combats the centre-halves - which normally is strength. Elsewhere Jack Connors continued to impress, looking assured on the ball at left-back while Luke Howell put in another committed performance in midfield.

My only other qualm is our worrying deficiancies when defending from set-pieces. It’s clear to everyone at the club, management staff included that this is our major weakness this season. And once again it was exposed on Saturday afternoon. If we can sort that out somehow, we will be a far sturdier outfit.

Unfortunately I can't let the game go without having a moan at the officials. They were absolutely abysmal, the worst I've seen in League Two in a good few years. You don't expect them to get all decisions correct at this level, but a decent grasp of the game would have been nice. Some of the decisions didn't make sense and quite frankly, it became embarrassing. I don't like moaning at the officials (contrary to popular belief), but Saturday's collection were bordering on a joke. 

And that was it basically. Finally we had completed a trip to Morecambe and secured a point for our troubles. The journey home was largely uneventful, although Zavon Hines was on our train for one reason or another.

Next up for Daggers is Bury at home on Saturday, while Morecambe travel south to Northampton Town. I do regret to tell you that due to Sixth Form work and other writing responsibilities, The Daggers Scale will now only be reserved for away matches - meaning no home games will be reported upon. That is of course unless there's a freak home result, in which case a report may be filed.

As always thank you for reading and I'll speak to you again soon! Remember to follow me on Twitter @NickMurphyDRFC.

Daggers 1-1 Exeter City, Parkin Space.

 

Dagenham & Redbridge continued their mediocre start to the new season on Saturday with a 1-1 draw against promotion chasing Exeter City. Despite a tough opening to the match, Daggers took the lead in the first half through Josh Scott, before Sam Parkin equalised for the visitors late in the second half with a controlled header. 

Before the match there was cautious optimism ahead of the clash with Exeter. Despite our notoriously poor record against the Grecians, we claimed all three points at St James Park last year when we needed it most. Not only that but our impressive 4-1 victory over Colchester United in midweek was also encouraging, retaining our unbeaten home start to the season. 

There was to be no pre-match pints this week, as upon arrival we sought shelter from the arctic winds in the warm alcove that is, the Sieve. Soon after our entrance the teams were announced, but not without one or two surprise selections.

Daggers boss Wayne Burnett made three changes to the side that was defeated in convincing fashion at Mansfield last week. After his debut in the Johnstones Paint Trophy in midweek, left back Jack Connors was handed his full league debut at the expense of Femi who dropped to the bench. Medy Elito and Luke Wilkinson were also replaced by Josh Scott and Gavin Hoyte, allowing Scott Doe to revert to his more familiar centre back position alongside Brian Saah.

Dagenham & Redbridge: Lewington, Connors, Doe, Saah, Hoyte, Howell, Bingham, Ogogo, Hines, Scott, Murphy. Subs: Seabright, Wilkinson, Saunders, Woodall, Elito, Obafemi, Femi.

Exeter City: Krysiak, Woodman, Bennett, Baldwin, Coles, Sercombe, Oakley, Davies, Grimes, Gow, Parkin.

With the Daggerettes having completed their "routine", the teams soon emerged from the tunnel to be greeted by warm applause from the 2000 or so supporters inside the ground. After the pre-match pleasantries were adhered to and the two most stylish managers in the division had shaken hands, we began. 

 Exeter City fans
(From Twitter)

From the off the visitors came within a lick of paint of taking the lead. Jack Connors, on his Football League debut, gave the ball away on the left, allowing Exeter to attack. A swift move saw the ball played to Arron Davies who took a touch before curling a terrific effort goalwards that glanced off the post before going out for a goal kick. It was a nervous start for Connors, who understandably was feeling the pressure early on. 

Despite that early chance, neither side could establish a real foothold on proceedings during the opening stages. Zavon Hines shot wide for the hosts from long range, while defender Danny Coles was on hand to deal with the early threat down the Daggers' right hand side. With few chances for either side, it was perhaps appropriate that Wayne Burnett's men should take the lead in slightly fortuitous circumstances.

A hopeful punt upfield from Brian Saah was raced onto by Josh Scott, who, after Exeter goalkeeper Artur Krysiak fluffed his clearance, volleyed home from a difficult position outside the box to give Daggers a 1-0 lead. The moment of madness from Krysiak seemed to take an age to happen, leaving Daggers fans on tenterhooks as to whether the ball had in fact gone in. Nonetheless we were now 1-0 up through Josh Scott's first league goal of the season.

That goal gave the hosts momentum to push forward in search of a second. The onus was on Hines in particular, who was giving his full back a torrid time as we edged closer to half time. The dynamic winger flashed down the right before firing in a cross that evaded both sets of players before going out of play for a throw in. Chances for Exeter were few and far between, but top scorer Alan Gow managed to test Chris Lewington 30 minutes in with a long range effort.

 

Liam Sercombe and Luke Howell then both traded strikes on goal, but in truth it was a half of few chances. Neither side had been able to establish a real foothold on the game, and as a result, few clear cut chances had been created. The referee soon blew his whistle for half time, bringing to a close a satisfactory half for Daggers fans.

During half time we were treated to another rendition of the Daggerettes, who as I'm sure you know by now, are my favourite Barking & Dagenham based dance troupe. Soon after their three minutes of fame was over, the teams re-emerged for the second half, with the visitors having made two changes.

Jimmy Keohane was introduced for Arron Davies, with David Wheeler replacing midfielder Matt Grimes. Despite the change, it was Daggers who opened the half the stronger. Once again it was Hines who looked the most menacing, forcing a shot from close range out of Krysiak after he weaved his way round the Exeter defence. From the resulting corner he went close again, this time firing just over the bar. 

Exeter then began to grow into the game, forcing successive corners that were dealt with by the resolute Daggers defence. Up the other end Rhys Murphy headed narrowly wide, while the newly introduced Keohane forced a quick double stop from Chris Lewington. It was the same pair who came closest as the half wore on, Murphy sliding another effort wide before Keohane flashed a shot just the wrong side of the post.

With just over 25 minutes left both teams continued to push for a goal - Daggers to make the game safe and Exeter to draw things level. Yet it was the hosts who continued to create the better of the opportunities. Jack Connors who was growing into the game more and more as it progressed skipped past his man before playing the ball to Zavon Hines. Hines, the architect of so much of Daggers' best work all afternoon, turned on his brilliance once again, forcing his way to the byline before cutting back for Josh Scott whose left footed shot was superbly stopped by the diving Artur Krysiak. 

That terrific save seemingly acted as the catalyst for an Exeter revival. But before they could truly kickstart their push for a point, Daggers made a double change. First Brian Woodall came on for Rhys Murphy, then five minutes later Medy Elito was introduced for Josh Scott. The substitutions seemed to disrupt Daggers' play, allowing Exeter back into the game to create several opportunities.

First the home defence were forced to clear away a tricky Pat Baldwin delivery, and then Alan Gow fired another speculative effort wide of the post.

But the Grecians finally found their leveller on 80 minutes. Former Leicester City maestro Matt Oakley delivered a ball in from the left that found Sam Parkin who was on hand to convert superbly with a glancing header that tied things up at 1-1. 

With the game there for the taking, both sides pushed following the equaliser. Good work on the left was wasted by Brian Woodall, who fired high and wide after working himself into a good position thanks to yet more neat play from Zavon Hines. Keohane aimed a late effort wide of the post, while Medy Elito found the scoreboard behind the goal during the three minutes of injury time.

Ultimately 1-1 was how it stayed. Daggers were punished for failing to capitalise on their chances against a strong Exeter City side that will be there or there about’s come the end of the season. Their lack of goal threat could be an issue however, with Alan Gow the only real problem bar Parkin's header for the goal.

Daggers meanwhile will be disappointed to have let three points slip from their grasp through abject finishing. Still, it was good to have Josh Scott score on his 100th appearance with a well taken finish. Hopefully alongside Murphy, Josh will thrive in a similar way to when he played alongside Paul Benson. Elsewhere Jack Connors did well after a nervous start, while Zavon Hines continued to prove why League One clubs were looking at him through the summer.

Next up for Daggers is Bristol Rovers at home on Saturday, while Exeter City are on their travels again at Northampton Town. Have a good week and remember you can follow me on Twitter at @NickMurphyDRFC. Thanks for reading! 

Oh and sorry for the lack of pictures from the game, only my Blackberry decided to stop working for the afternoon.

Daggers 1-1 Newport County, Hines Means Beans!

 

Dagenham & Redbridge extended their unbeaten league run to three matches on Saturday afternoon courtesy of a 1-1 draw with newly promoted Newport County. Abu Ogogo's strike midway through the second half cancelled out Chris Zebroski's early effort as both sides left Victoria Road with a point a piece. 

Pre-match there was a good level of optimism following on from last weekend’s 1-1 draw with Scunthorpe. The second half performance at Glanford Park was one of the best Daggers have produced under Wayne Burnett, if that could be translated into a full 90 at home then we stood a good chance of picking up 3 points. Nevertheless Newport couldn't be underestimated. With momentum still carrying on from last year’s promotion, the Exiles had taken 6 points from a possible 9 available, with their attack forming the basis of their current good form.

With the rain drizzling down overhead, there was no stop in the clubhouse this week, only time to meet up in the pie & mash shop and head down to Victoria Road. As we entered, the rain grew heavier which was made increasingly evident by the sparse nature of the Bury Road End. Well would you be mad enough to stand out in it? Then again, we're all mad enough to be here in the first place.

Just as we found our spot in the Sieve, the teams emerged from the tunnel to warm applause from all four sides of the stadium. The pre-match rituals were completed with haste whilst the line ups rang out from overhead.

Dagenham & Redbridge: Lewington, Femi, Saah, Doe, Hoyte, Ogogo, Howell, Elito, Scott, Murphy, Woodall. Subs: Seabright, Bingham, Obafemi, Wilkinson, Dennis, Connors, Hines.

Despite the availability of fit again centre half Luke Wilkinson; Wayne Burnett persevered with the same side that picked up a point last weekend against Scunthorpe. The front three of Murphy, Scott and Woodall continued with Medy Elito supporting them from just behind. Zavon Hines, who signed on a one year deal during the week, had to be content with a spot on the home bench.

Newport County: Pidgeley, Pipe, Hughes, Sandell, Naylor, Worley, Chapman, Minshull, Willmott, Zebroski, Jolley. Subs: Stephens, James, Jackson, Flynn, Crow, Washington.

With the teams lined up and ready to go, the referee blew his whistle to get the contest underway. Within minutes of the start, County 'keeper Lenny Pidgeley was called into action. Medy Elito drove down the middle of the pitch before releasing Josh Scott on the right who after taking a touch, shot straight at Pidgeley, allowing the former Chelsea 'stopper to make a comfortable save. 

The hosts continued their early pressure soon after with Rhys Murphy firing over from just outside the box. With little over 5 minutes played, Chris Lewington was forced into a brilliant diving stop to deny Christian Jolley's goalbound volley from Chris Zebroski's pin point cross. A terrific piece of goalkeeping from Lewington who continues to cement himself as one of the division’s best shot stoppers.

Newport soon began to clasp a foothold in the game and should have taken the lead when Jolley crossed for Zebroski, only for the ex-Torquay forward to fire over from close range. Despite their dangerous looking attack, the visitors were looking decidedly shaky at the back. And it showed once more 20 minutes in, when Rhys Murphy found space on the left and shot just wide of Lenny Pidgeley's goal from a tight angle. 

Doe was at fault, amongst others.

Thanks to the open nature of the game, it wasn't long before we saw the first goal of the afternoon. Josh Scott was caught in possession going forward and after neat play in the middle of the park, Chris Zebroski skipped past Femi, Brian Saah and Scott Doe before unleashing an assured finish past Chris Lewington and into the corner of the net. It sent the Exiles into a somewhat deserved 1-0 lead as the rain continued to lash down on Victoria Road.

Daggers and in particular Josh Scott, looking to avenge his earlier mistake, sprung back into action following the goal. Josh picked up the ball just outside the box, dropped his shoulder to beat a defender before turning and striking a shot which Pidgeley gathered at the second attempt. Newport were quickly up the other end and but for a timely deflection, would have found themselves two goals ahead. 

With half-time approaching, a goal looking increasingly unlikely and the rain coming down to such an extent that the pitch was barely visible - most were clamouring for the half-time whistle. There was time for one more opportunity, a cross-cum-shot on the left hand side whistling wide of the far post much to the relief of Pidgeley. Nevertheless the referee soon ended everyone's misery and brought an end to a dismal first half. 

The half time break was uneventful at best, with the rain continuing to teem down on the metal roof of the Sieve. The situation was made even worse with the news that once again, my Saturday afternoon bet was failing to materialise into cold, hard cash. One day I'll win, one day.

Before the second half could begin, Wayne Burnett opted to make a striking double substitution. The average Medy Elito and Josh Scott (presumably taken off as punishment for his mistake), were replaced by Billy Bingham in centre midfield and new signing Zavon Hines in order to add a more creative edge. 

Despite the second half subs, it was Newport that looked the more likely to score as the half began. Andy Sandell saw his first effort blocked behind by Gavin Hoyte, whilst Chris Lewington was soon on hand to palm away Tom Naylor's close range header. The two sides then traded blows, Lee Minshull firing a strike past the post before Luke Howell saw his effort from the edge of the box parried away by Pidgeley. 

With the half wearing on it becoming increasingly likely that the visitors would double their lead, rather than Daggers finding an equaliser. On 56 minutes Adam Chapman's volley fell for Andy Sandell who could only fire agonisingly over the bar from close range. 

But just two minutes later, Daggers found their equaliser. Gavin Hoyte's far post delivery was met by Abu Ogogo who bundled the ball home to make it 1-1. Newport boss Justin Edinburgh acted quickly and in a surprise move replaced standout performer Christian Jolley, with forward Conor Washington, who once trialled with Daggers. 

With the game now at level pegging, both sides felt as though three points were there for the taking. First Robbie Willmott had an effort blocked by goalscorer Ogogo, whilst up the other end Zavon Hines' mazy run resulted in a lazy shot that was easily blocked by former Aldershot man, Sandell. The introduction of Hines at half time acted as a catalyst for Daggers who now had a creative spark in the side willing to take players on and crucially get down the wings.

On 73 minutes Justin Edinburgh opted to make his second change of the afternoon, replacing Robbie Willmott with Michael Flynn, now in his third spell with the Exiles. Despite the change, Daggers continued to pressure in the same way that Newport had late in the first half. The mercurial Zavon Hines unlocked the fragile County defence once more, advancing forward before firing a deflected shot into the body of Pidgeley who was on hand to deny Daggers once more.

Zebroski
www.SouthWalesArgus.co.uk

As we headed into the final 10 minutes of the match, the visitors thought they had snatched all three points. Directly from Rhys Murphy's cross, County broke upfield, but from a tight angle with minimal home defending, Lee Minshull could only manage to find the side netting. The break in play following the missed chance saw Edinburgh make his final substitution, bringing on Danny Crow for the impressive Chris Zebroski.

Perennial thorn in the Daggers side, Minshull continued to look like the most likely scorer after the substitution. Particularly adept in the air, he first managed to glance a header wide of the post before minutes later he came even closer, directing the ball just inches the wrong side of the near post after being left completely unmarked. 

After Newport's near miss, it was the turn of the hosts to come agonisingly close to finding a winner themselves. The talismanic Hines who had been a danger ever since being introduced skipped past several defenders before curling another effort just a yard or so wide of Pidgeley's post. 

And then minutes later a change by Wayne Burnett, Afolabi Obafemi being brought on for Rhys Murphy, nearly heralded a goal. The pacey forward beat Derby loanee Tom Naylor to the byline, before cutting inside and hitting a shot that beat Pidgeley, but not Andy Hughes on the line whose last gasp clearance denied Daggers a near certain victory.

Into stoppage time and back up the other end Newport were awarded a late, late corner. These days at Victoria Road, corners are bemoaned as much as penalties, such is our inferior defending from set-pieces. Luckily though, Andy Sandell's corner was headed over the bar which ultimately wrapped up proceedings. A point a-piece for Edinburgh and Burnett, with both sides remaining in the top half of the table.

The game itself was very end to end and for both sides to come away with a point is the right outcome. Daggers looked much improved following the introduction of Zavon Hines, with the winger providing an injection of pace and creativity as mentioned above. Luke Howell meanwhile ran the show in the middle of the park and alongside Billy Bingham in the second half, an effective pairing was formed. Bingham's calm nature on the ball accompanied Howell's engine-room like qualities magnificently.

Newport on the other hand have some impressive qualities of their own. Despite looking decidedly shaky at the back, going forward they're not to be messed with. The goal threat of Zebroski alongside Christian Jolley is clear, not to mention the added potency of Conor Washington who came off the bench. It accompanied a strong aerial threat from Minshull in particular. Even with their defensive frailties and their tendency to allow opponents too much time on the ball, I've seen enough to suggest Newport will finish in the top half.

The league this year seems to be full of sides who are dangerous going forward, but suspect at the back. Home form will be key for both Newport and Daggers this year, with the former having already picked up 6 points from 6 at Rodney Parade. Wayne Burnett's side relied heavily on away performances last season, but this year we look like a far tougher outfit at Victoria Road, whilst remaining more than competent on the road.

Next week Daggers travel to Mansfield Town in a game that for one reason or another has been designated all ticket. This means you cannot buy your matchday ticket on the day, it must be bought in advance. Newport meanwhile face West Bromwich Albion in the League Cup tomorrow evening, and for that match I wish them the best of luck! I won't be at Field Mill next week, so we'll reconvene in a week or so after either the Colchester or Exeter City match.

Remember you can follow me on Twitter, @NickMurphyDRFC. Enjoy your week and here's hoping for a Daggers victory on Saturday!

Scunthorpe United 1-1 Daggers, Howell's About That!

After a defeat and a victory from their opening two games, Dagenham & Redbridge completed the set on Saturday with a creditable 1-1 draw against Scunthorpe United at Glanford Park. In what was a tight affair, all of the action came in the final 20 minutes of the contest. Late goals from Chris Mirfin and Luke Howell ensured both sides took a share of the spoils in the first ever meeting between the two clubs. 

Ahead of the game there was cause for optimism. Despite an opening day defeat at Fleetwood, last weekend's 2-0 victory over York left many believing that we had a chance against the Iron. Our forward play in the first two matches had been admirable, with only the defence, and in particular our defending from set-pieces letting us down. Against a powerful Scunthorpe side, that was inevitably going to cause problems.

With all of the afternoon to look forward to, we set off from Chadwell Heath at around 8:20 before arriving at Kings Cross just over an hour later. We soon boarded our "Hull Trains" connection to Doncaster where we changed onto the TransPennine Express, arriving at the quaint Scunthorpe station just after 12:30. We quickly found a cab company and departed for Glanford Park where upon arrival, we were denied access to the Iron Bar. Apparently there's not enough room for away fans, although it was only half empty when we arrived.

That setback aside, we soon found a pub/restaurant willing to take us in for the afternoon. After hiding Harry's Bombardier's in a hedge outside (No, really), we went in for some pre-match drinks. After a good couple of hours inside the Farmhouse, which is neither a farm nor a house, we exited and headed for the stadium as kick-off approached.

Upon entering the stadium, you're greeted with a narrow concrete pathway and a tunnel which leads out into the remainder of the four stands. Glanford Park is quite a small arena, but one that can probably generate a terrific atmosphere when full up. Three parts seating and one part terrace, it has a traditional feel despite being a relatively modern build. The stadium itself is quite a simple one, with all stands the same in height and adjoining onto one another to create a bowl like shape. 

The South Stand.

Due to the anticipated low number of travelling supporters, Scunthorpe fans were given use of all four stands within the stadium meaning Daggers were housed in the Clugston overspill area in the East Stand. Usually visiting supporters are given the 1678 capacity South Stand, but on our visit that was reserved for families and those with promotional tickets. 

Soon after we arrived, "Hi Ho Silver Lining" rung out over the PA system as the atmosphere began to build ahead of kick off. With 3500 supporters inside the ground ready and waiting, the teams emerged from the tunnel to a ripple of applause.

Scunthorpe United: Slocombe, Dawson, Mirfin, Canavan, Nolan, McAllister, Hawkridge, Sparrow, Collins, Burton, Winnall. 

Daggers: Lewington, Femi, Doe, Saah, Hoyte, Ogogo, Howell, Elito, Scott, Murphy, Woodall. Subs: Seabright, Connors, Bingham, Reed, Gayle, Obafemi, Dennis.

Unsurprisingly Wayne Burnett kept with the same eleven that won convincingly at home to York City last weekend, with the front three of Brian Woodall, Rhys Murphy and Josh Scott continuing to lead the line. Elsewhere both Sean Shields and Gianluca Gracco were missing from the bench, allowing defender Ian Gayle to give Daggers more defensive cover if needed.

With the pre-match pleasantries completed and the rain petering out overhead, referee Darren Deadman blew his whistle to signal the beginning of the match. And for the first quarter of an hour or so, we were all left wishing he hadn't. An uninspiring start from both sides saw a midfield battle engulf proceedings, with few opportunities for either side. The well travelled Dean Burton tested Chris Lewington with a tame header, whilst Sam Winnall shot well over for the hosts.

As the half wore on the hosts became increasingly dominant, first new signing Terry Hawkridge flashed a shot wide of the post before Craig Dawson guided an effort over Lewington's bar. Daggers were finding it difficult to establish a foothold in the match, although Femi and Medy Elito were offering a degree of solace on the left hand side. 

With just over half an hour gone, Daggers finally registered their first shot on the Iron goal. Following a Scunthorpe attack, the ball was played out to Femi who after striding forward laid it to Medy Elito in the centre of the park. Elito advanced forward, skipping past several challenges on his root to goal before firing a misplaced shot wide of Slocombe's goal to the delight of the home supporters.

Elito's effort was a mere blip in the first half for Scunthorpe who continued to look the more likely scorers. Chris Lewington was called into action once more to deny the impressive Terry Hawkridge after Abu Ogogo's mistake, whilst Eddie Nolan headed over from a corner when he really should have found the target. That miss brought an end to a poor first half showing from both sides, even if Scunny looked the more likely to break the deadlock.

The visitors were being undone by their inability to stay onside in the opposition half. This trait links directly to Rhys Murphy, who must have been offside at least five times in the first half for failing to hold his run. Murphy clearly knows where to be on the pitch when his team-mates have the ball; he just needs to be a little less eager when latching onto any ball through. After sitting through one of the better half-time entertainments in League Two, the teams re-emerged onto the pitch for the second half. 

As we started the second half Daggers looked rejuvenated, causing serious problems to the hosts from the outset. Femi immediately posed a threat down the left hand side, with Slocombe at full stretch to deny his cross reaching a Daggers forward. Seconds later Brian Woodall was released through on goal, but his low strike was tipped round the post superbly by the diving Slocombe.

From the resulting corner Daggers came even closer, Medy Elito's near post delivery was met by Josh Scott who glanced his header onto the woodwork. The rebound was scrambled away to Abu Ogogo who crossed tamely into the box for a Scunthorpe defender to clear away before Rhys Murphy could latch onto the end of it.

The danger wasn't over yet for the Iron though who conceded another corner minutes later. This time it was a Burnett special, with Elito drilling the ball towards Murphy in the middle of the box, only to see his shot blocked by the Scunny defender on the line. The clearance fell to Ogogo who after steadying himself drilled a half-volley just wide of the near post. Two brilliant pieces of play from Daggers that on another day, may have heralded two goals. 

Daggers continued to push forward, with Luke Howell driving another effort over the bar soon after. The two teams then traded blows, with Scunthorpe's main threat, Hawkridge, drilling wide of the mark before Elito drove forward past several defenders before firing a left footed strike just over Slocombe's crossbar. 

Och Aye the D'OH!
www.telegraph.com

Scunthorpe soon made their second change of the afternoon, with Chris "Remember that miss for Scotland" Iwelumo, replacing former Gills man Deon Burton. Regardless of Iwelumo's blunder-some reputation, he was sure to cause problems at League Two level. With Burnett busy in the background readying a substitution of his own, Abu Ogogo flashed another effort yards wide of the post.

With 66 minutes played, Louis Dennis was introduced for the tireless Josh Scott with the hope of heightened creativity going forward. But directly after the change, it all went downhill for the visitors. Terry Hawkridge's difficult delivery from the right was misjudged by Daggers left back Femi, who appeared to handle the ball from inside the box. The referee took the same view and appeased the cries for a penalty from the 3400 home supporters by pointing to the spot.

Upon the award, Chris Iwelumo quickly grabbed the ball, showing his confidence and intentions for the penalty. The Scotland International placed the ball on the spot and stepped three yards back before turning to face Chris Lewington. Deadman blew his whistle, Iwelumo stepped up, but the Daggers 'stopper guessed correctly, diving low down to his left to push the ball out of harm’s way and wide of the post. Groans quickly emanated from the Iron terrace as Daggers fans jumped for joy as the scoreline remained locked at 0-0.

The visitors were quickly breaking up the other end and were given a terrific opportunity to take the lead when Eddie Nolan brought down Femi on the left hand side. Brian Woodall took the set-piece, but Sam Slocombe was equal to the forwards effort once more. Soon Scunthorpe were back on top and really should have taken the lead 80 minutes in. Craig Dawson's free kick from the left hand side was met by Iwelumo who could only direct his free header wide of the post from six yards out.

It looked easier to score for Iwelumo, but somehow the languishing forward managed to miss the best chance of the afternoon. It was yet another reprieve for Daggers who were really riding their luck by this point. Both sides then made a change in an attempt to bring on fresh legs. The Iron introduced Jamie Wootton for tiring striker Sam Winnall, whilst Daggers replaced the all action Rhys Murphy with Jake Reed. 

With the game seemingly heading for a draw, Scunthorpe broke the Daggers resistance from yet another set piece. Terry Hawkridge's delivery on the right hand side was met by Chris Mirfin who rose highest to head home powerfully, despite the best efforts of 'keeper Chris Lewington. It was that familiar sinking feeling for Daggers fans who have now conceded three out of four goals in the league from set-piece situations.

Howell

Despite the late goal, there was still hope as the fourth official raised the board to signal a minimum of four minutes of injury time. And within minutes of going behind, Daggers were back level in dramatic fashion. After neat play in the midfield, Brian Woodall played a well weighted ball through two Iron defenders and into the path of Luke Howell who slotted home coolly underneath Sam Slocombe to make it 1-1.

The celebrations in the away end quickly turned to fear as immediately after the restart, Scunthorpe were awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position. Matt Sparrow struck the ball, but thankfully his effort was blocked by the Daggers wall and cleared away upfield. Before Brian Laws' men had a chance to pump the ball back into the Daggers box once more, the referee called a halt to proceedings which ensured a deserved point apiece for both sides. 

Wayne Burnett brought the players over to applaud the 107 travelling fans that had made the trip to Lincolnshire, before what I can only foresee as congratulating his team on a hard earned point. In hindsight a point is a terrific result against a team that will probably be challenging for promotion this season, however you can't help but feel if we'd have taken our chances in the opening 20 minutes of the second half, it could have been a lot different. 

The only qualm I have with the display is once again conceding from a set-piece. It's something that needs to be worked upon because at the moment, it's the one vital flaw in our game. Going forward we look sound, the performances of the marauding Medy Elito are proving to be a particular unexpected highlight. If we can keep up the sort of displays that have seen us pick up a point on Saturday and a win against York City, we should have no doubts over survival.

Scunthorpe meanwhile will have better days. There's no doubt that in the long run they will be a force to be reckoned with in this league. They struggled for creativity without Etienne Esajas, but the youngster Terry Hawkridge, signed from Gainsborough Trinity in the summer looks like a brilliant transfer. The less said about Chris Iwelumo however, the better.

Saturday's point moves us up a place to 11th in the League Two table, meanwhile Scunthorpe drop to 8th. Next week we're back at Victoria Road to face newly promoted Newport County who will undoubtedly provide a stern test for Wayne Burnett. Until then, have a safe week and we'll reconvene next Monday! Remember you can follow me on Twitter using @NickMurphyDRFC.

Oh, and if you're wondering, yes, Harry's Bombardier's were still in the hedge 6 hours later. A successful day all round. 

Daggers 2-0 York City, Minstermeat.

After two successive defeats to open the season, Dagenham & Redbridge finally got their league campaign up and running yesterday with an assured 2-0 victory over York City. Rhys Murphy and Brian Woodall bagged the goals for the Daggers who pick up their first three point haul at Victoria Road since last February's encounter against Cheltenham Town. More importantly it was also Wayne Burnett's first home victory as Daggers boss, marking the end of his home hoodoo as manager. 

Ahead of the game I have to admit I wasn't particularly optimistic. To be more accurate, I assumed that like last season’s home meeting with York, we would lose by the odd goal in a tight affair. But still, if we were to perform as we had done against Brentford on Tuesday night, we stood more than a fighting chance of taking not just one, but three points from the travelling Minstermen.

Having had a quick couple of ciders in the clubhouse, we headed down, out and through the turnstiles to be greeted by the evergreen Victoria Road pitch for the first time this season. The foxholes that had been exposed scandalously on "92 Live" had been covered for the opening game, and we were ready to go. The teams emerged from the tunnel and were announced over the tannoy as follows...

Dagenham & Redbridge: Lewington, Femi, Doe, Saah, Hoyte, Howell, Ogogo, Elito, Scott, Murphy, Woodall. Subs: Seabright, Connors, Afolabi, Bingham, Reed, Shields, Dennis.

Wayne Burnett made a single change from the Tuesday night league cup defeat at Brentford, bringing in Brian Woodall up front for Jake Reed. It ensured Daggers lined up with a front three packed with vibrancy, and hopefully with goals.

York City: Ingham, Oyebanjo, Davies, Smith, McGurk, Coulson, Chambers, Montrose, Platt, Jarvis, Cresswell.

With the teams announced and everyone in place, the pre-match pleasantries completed the referee blew his whistle to get the contest underway.

After an initial slow start, Daggers slowly imposed their authority on proceedings ten minutes in. First Josh Scott skewed a tame shot wide of the post, whilst Medy Elito was soon stopped in his tracks down the left hand side. The hosts failed to make their early advantage count, allowing their opponents back into the game with a string of crosses that were defended well by the Daggers defence. 

York continued their assault on the Daggers goal as we reached the twenty minute mark, with Abu Ogogo's goalline clearance the only barrier denying the visitors from taking the lead. Scott Doe and Brian Saah had to be at their sharpest to deny Richard Cresswell going forward as Nigel Worthington's side sought reward for their hard work. Chris Lewington was soon on guard to deny an Oyebanjo header, whilst another strike from Cresswell was dealt with well by the home defence.

Despite the fervent York pressure, it was the hosts who came closest as the half wore on. Brian Woodall in particular got pulses racing with two spectacular efforts. The first drifted tamely wide of the post, but the second was mesmeric. After receiving the ball on the left hand side, Woodall took a single touch before turning and firing a rasping effort over Michael Ingham and onto the roof of the net. Had it gone in, it would have been real Van Basten stuff.

But Daggers did take the lead soon after. A hopeful punt downfield by Gavin Hoyte was met by Brian Woodall, who, after a smart turn laid the ball through to the onrushing Rhys Murphy. The Irishman who netted last week at Fleetwood rounded Michael Ingham before slotting home coolly into the back of the net. That's how you do it Daggers! It all seems so simple when you give the ball to a Murphy, doesn't it?

The half ended in much the same way as it had begun, with a midfield tussle cancelling out both sides' creative input. Medy Elito offered a significant threat for the hosts, while Chris Lewington had to remain vigilant to deny David McGurk's goalbound effort on the stroke of half time. But sure enough after a minute of additional play, the referee drew a close to the first half with Daggers leading by a goal to nil.

After an uneventful half time period, the action was soon back underway with Michael Coulson firing a shot inches wide of the post for the visitors. Despite early pressure from York, it was the hosts who forced the first save of the second period. After good play down the left Medy Elito cut in and drew an assured stop from Ingham, before Femi predictably sliced the follow up strike into the advertising hoardings. 

With it becoming evident his York side were lacking going forward, Nigel Worthington acted to make a change on 60 minutes. It was a like for like swap in midfield, with Craig Clay replacing Lewis Montrose as the Minstermen went in search of the creative input they dearly lacked. Unfortunately it only worked to fire the Daggers up even more, with Brian Woodall going close soon after with another shapshot on the edge of the box.

Wes Fletcher was then introduced for Ashley Chambers as York continued to hunt down that elusive equaliser. Again it only served to give Daggers the initiative, this time Medy Elito curled a shot just wide of the post. The York pressure soon subsided, giving the hosts the chance to put the game out of sight. And but for Scotsman, Michael Ingham tipping Rhys Murphy's effort wide of the post they would have done just that.

Daggers then made a change of their own, with Billy Bingham replacing Luke Howell in midfield. Directly after the change, Daggers extended their lead. Medy Elito took control on the left before picking out Brian Woodall with a sublime ball across the park. Upon receiving the pass, Woodall took a single touch to beat his man before toe-poking home the finish off of the post and into the back of the net. Cue celebrations in the Sieve and a somersault from an exuberant Woodall, his first goal since January.

The goal from Woodall effectively sealed the contest, yet there was still time for substitute Afolabi Obafemi to blast over from five yards out – a gilt edge chance for the youngster. Nevertheless it's a much needed win for Daggers, and a win that has ended Wayne Burnett's home jinx in the process. The victory lifts the Essex outfit up to 12th in the standings after two games, whisper it quietly but we're only a point from the play-offs (too soon for optimism, eh?)

Still, there were plenty of positives to take from the victory. The most poignant perhaps was the performance of Medy Elito. It's a new season with a relatively new manager and he seems like a new player. He took players on, got past them and managed to get opposition players booked - as a winger that's what he should be doing. He looks rejuvenated under Burnett, long may it continue.

The front three performed very well, it seems clear they already have that sort of striking bond you need if a team is to be successful. Rhys Murphy in particular looks like a terrific signing; meanwhile it's evident that Brian Woodall has his confidence back.

So after that victory we now move on to Saturday, where we make our first ever trip to Glanford Park in our first ever meeting with Scunthorpe United. I shall be there to witness this no doubt historic occasion, so make sure you read my musings on Monday! Until then, have a great week and remember to follow me on Twitter, @NickMurphyDRFC.