Hackney Wick FC were beaten 3–0 at home by Saffron Walden Town in a disappointing afternoon at the Simarco Stadium, as the visitors once again proved a difficult opponent.
The Wickers actually started the game well, moving the ball sharply and creating early openings, but were punished for not taking their chances. Leo Pola and Issa Sidibe both went close but couldn’t find the breakthrough.
Despite Hackney’s positive start, it was Saffron Walden who struck first. A dangerous cross from the right was met by a powerful header that gave the goalkeeper no chance.
Minutes later, another delivery into the box wasn’t properly cleared, and Saffron’s number 7 reacted quickest to fire home from close range to make it 2–0.
Hackney tried to regroup but the visitors were in full control by now and struck again before half-time with a well-worked move down the left that was finished clinically. At the break, it was 0–3 and a mountain to climb.
Hackney pushed hard after the interval and to their credit, didn’t give up. Pola stung the keeper’s hands from distance and Sidibe forced another save, but there was no way through a disciplined Saffron back line.
The second half brought more spirit from the Wickers but no goals, and ultimately it was Saffron Walden who left with all three points — just as they did in the recent FA Vase meeting.
A tough defeat to take, but Hackney won’t have long to dwell on it. Attention now turns quickly to Tuesday night, as the Wickers face West Essex FC in another important Essex Senior League fixture and a chance to respond.
Next Match:
West Essex FC vs Hackney Wick FC
Tuesday Night – Essex Senior League
Come on you Wickers.