Redbridge manager Steve Portway

Ryman One North: Redbridge 2 Cheshunt 1

Redbridge claimed their first win in nine league games after an unconvincing 2-1 victory against Cheshunt at Oakside on Saturday.

The home side started on top with chances falling to Jacob Cleaver and Daniel Jones, but the Motormen couldn’t convert.

After a fairly balanced start, the breakthrough came on 33 minutes when Joe Bricknell’s corner caused problems for Cheshunt, and goalkeeper Glenn Williamson bizarrely punched the ball into his own net.

The goal seemed to spark the visitors into life though as Cheshunt were twice denied by the post before the break.

Things were much the same after the interval with Cheshunt on top instantly as they controlled the game with the vast majority of possession.

A controversial moment came almost 10 minutes into the second period when Jason Mason’s corner was headed towards goal but it appeared to be handled off the line from a Redbridge defender, but the referee waved away the protests.

Despite the away side’s domination, the Motormen were continuing to threaten on the counter attack.

Jones linked up well with Cleaver, but lobbed his effort over the keeper and wide of the goal.

With Redbridge pinned back in their own half, the counter attacking football was on again.

This time the ball was lumped up field towards Glen O’Hanlon who took the ball around Williamson and into the net to double the lead.

The hosts had the opportunity to make it three with 15 minutes to go as Cleaver was one-on-one with the goalkeeper but he failed to convert.

Cheshunt were throwing everything at the home side, but blocked shots and stunning saves were keeping them at bay.

With a minute left on the clock, the visitors’ persistence paid off as Mason’s corner was headed in by Danny Gudgeon to give the away side hope.

However, the Motormen managed to hang on to what could be a valuable victory at Oakside.

Tonight Redbridge host Romford in the third round of the Essex Senior Cup