Foxes boss looks back on first success since February and character of his squad

Ilford manager Allan Fenn praised the impact of Elias Armah-Tackie following Saturday’s 4-2 win over Eton Manor in the Essex Senior League.

The Foxes found themselves two goals down at the break, but thankfully rediscovered their shooting boots after the restart.

Karolis Atutis reduced the arrears before Carl Mullings equalised for the visitors at V&E Sports Ground before the hour mark.

Paul Clayton then put Ilford ahead and substitute Joe Hall made it 4-2 late on to complete the comeback.

“Elias came off bench at half time and how much we have missed him was evident,” said Fenn.

“The way he can beat players, do tricks and keep the ball is just fantastic. It was stuck to his foot and he was a game changer.

“He allowed our back four to push up more and he provided us with an outlet. Joe Hall was playing his second match since moving down from Yorkshire and they were all very good.

“We had Julio DaMata, our central midfielder from the reserves, playing and he was impressive. It was a big contribution from all the boys.”

The Ilford boss admitted it was a relief to get the victory at the weekend – their first in the division since February 13.

Foxes had only lost once during that time, to Hullbridge Sports, and drawn three of their league fixtures.

But Fenn, nevertheless, was delighted to pick up all three points against Manor, he added: “It was a relief to win on Saturday because it was a month since the last win.

“We had a few draws so yes we were undefeated, but quite some time without a victory. I was pleased to get the three points and it beats the total we achieved last season with nine more matches to play.

“That shows we are making progress on the pitch as well as off it. We are doing well and I have a great group of lads.”

Even when Ilford were two down at half time, Fenn wasn’t too worried because they had dominated the game.

He praised the character of his squad with numerous people missing and also ill on Saturday.

Fenn added: “We were two down at half time, but it was more of a game of two scorelines rather than two halves. I thought we dominated the first half and had so many chances, but they’ve had two shots and scored twice.

“The boys showed a lot of character because we were without several players and I had to bring a few reserves in. I had flu still and quite a few of us didn’t feel well, but we picked ourselves up off the floor and got the win.”