Hackney Wick FC returned to winning ways in style as they recorded a 4–1 away victory over local rivals West Essex FC, delivering a confident and controlled performance under the lights.

Manager Ernest made one change to the starting lineup, with Andre Anderson returning to midfield in place of John Silva, and the switch paid off as Hackney looked sharp from the first whistle.

Hackney took the lead inside the opening stages when Adam Cheneti reacted quickest inside the box to slot home after West Essex failed to deal with a low delivery. The Wickers continued to push forward and could have doubled the lead, but Issa Sidibe fired wide from a glorious one-on-one opportunity.

Half-Time: West Essex 0–1 Hackney Wick

The second half saw more of the same from Hackney, who controlled possession and created chances while West Essex, now under new management, remained dangerous on the counter.

Cheneti grabbed his second of the match to make it 2–0, capitalising on a handling error from the West Essex goalkeeper to poke in from close range.

West Essex briefly threatened a comeback when A. Simpson pulled one back, finishing well after a quick move down the right to make it 2–1.

However, the Wickers response was outstanding. Substitute John Silva made an instant impact, arriving late in the box to finish confidently for 3–1, before fellow substitute Arnold Meng sealed the result with a well-taken strike to make it 4–1.

A dominant and professional performance from Hackney Wick, who showed their attacking depth and character after Saturday’s defeat to Saffron Walden. The win lifts the Wickers up to 9th in the Essex Senior League table, just four points outside the play-off places.

The squad now have a well-earned weekend off before regrouping and preparing for their next league challenge.

⚽ Hackney Wick Goals:
Cheneti (2), Silva, Meng

⚽ West Essex Goal:
Simpson