Barkingside manager Matt Frew

Frew reflects on cup semi-final

Barkingside boss Matt Frew felt his side deserved more from their Essex Senior League cup semi-final first leg clash with Burnham this week.

Gabriel Onireti gave the hosts a seventh-minute lead at Oakside, but Burnham hit back through Charlie Kirby early in the second half.

The second leg takes place at Burnham’s Leslie Field next month and Frew said: “I’m not being biased, but I think we were the better side.

“We had to make some changes because some people were cup-tied but we started well and didn’t let them get into their rhythm.

“We went in at half time 1-0 up and I think that was a fair scoreline and we could have even got more.

“They weren’t the Burnham side we know but they must have got a dressing down at half time. We switched off a little bit and they scored, but to be honest I think we should have had a win.

“I’ve said to the boys that we’ve still got the second leg to play and we’re in with a good chance. We’ve got the best away form in the league.

“It would have been nice to have won in the first leg but I think the second leg will be a good game and a good battle.”

Side are without a game tomorrow, but are set to return to league action with another home fixture against Sporting Bengal on Monday.

The east London club drew 4-4 with Great Wakering Rovers this week, but Frew added: “On paper it should be a comfortable win, but they’ve got a good side.

“Sometimes they don’t always turn up (play well), so we’ll have to see on the day.

“We haven’t got a game on Saturday so we’ll have a few days off and be fresh when we play against them but I anticipate that it will be a tough game.”

‘Side have now gone five games unbeaten in all matches and still have a chance of finishing in the top three.

And Frew is hoping to add some new faces before the signing deadline in a bid to improve their chances.

He added: “We’re in good form at the moment so we’ll just have to take each game as it comes.

“The ability to win games has always been there but we sometimes let ourselves down with little blips.

“I’m trying to improve the squad. I’m looking for a goalkeeper, a striker and midfielder.

“We’re really close to signing Chas Liddiard from Barking, he’s a good striker with really good stats. And Chris Clarke in goal because I’m looking for cover and competition for my number one.

“I’m still looking for the right midfielder but I expect to have a fully fit squad against Sporting Bengal.”