Hackney Wick FC edged out Basildon 6-4 in a wild and dramatic league encounter, securing another vital win despite a nerve-wracking second half. It looked like a comfortable night for the Wickers, who raced to a 3-0 halftime lead with goals from Christian Munganga and a brace from Issa Sidibie.
After the break, Nathanial Asiedu-Binney extended Hackney’s lead, making it 4-0 and putting the team in dreamland. However, defensive errors allowed Basildon to pull one back, but John Silva quickly restored Hackney's four-goal cushion at 5-1.
What followed was a rollercoaster ride as Basildon hit back with a controversial penalty, narrowing the gap to 5-2. A triple substitution left Hackney unbalanced, and Basildon capitalized, scoring two more goals—although one was ruled out. The visitors then hit the crossbar, putting Hackney under immense pressure.
Despite missing chances to kill the game, Hackney managed to seal the win in the dying moments when David Woods found the back of the net, making it 6-4. With this victory, Hackney Wick remain two points clear of second-placed Harlow, who still have a game in hand.
Next up, Hackney face a tough test as they travel to Hoddesdon Town.
Final Score: Hackney Wick FC 6 - 4 Basildon Town FC
Scorers:
Christian Munganga (1)
Issa Sidibie (2)
Nathanial Asiedu-Binney (1)
John Silva (1)
David Woods (1)