Hackney Wick FC made it back-to-back victories in the Essex Senior League with a hard-fought 2–1 home win over a strong Buckhurst Hill side at the Simarco Stadium.
It was a game that demanded character and resilience, and the Wickers showed plenty of both, with Issa Sidibe once again proving the difference as his brace sealed all three points and lifted Hackney up to 8th in the table, just four points off the play-offs.

Buckhurst Hill started brightly and were arguably the better team in the opening period, playing some sharp, attacking football. However, they were continually frustrated by a superb defensive display led by Gerrard Thompson-Shaw, who marshalled the back line with authority.
Against the run of play, Hackney struck first. On 38 minutes, Sidibe was in the right place at the right time to tap home from close range after a scramble in the box — a classic poacher’s finish that gave the hosts a 1–0 lead at half-time.

Hackney looked to press home their advantage after the restart and should have gone two up when John Silva broke through one-on-one, but his effort flew over the bar.
That miss looked costly when Buckhurst Hill equalised midway through the half. A speculative shot was spilled by goalkeeper Obaid Nassim, allowing the visitors to pounce and level at 1–1.

But Hackney weren’t finished. In the 84th minute, Sidibe was brought down inside the box after a strong run and confidently converted the resulting penalty himself to make it 2–1 and secure another valuable three points.

A gritty, determined display sees Hackney extend their unbeaten run to three matches and continue climbing the Essex Senior League table. The team now sit 8th — four points off the play-off positions — with real momentum building.

Next up, a Friday night clash on Halloween — and the Wickers will be hoping for no tricks, just more treats in the form of another three points!