My first venture of the season across the Dartford crossing to Essex, took me to see Chadfields, the home of “the Dockers”, as Tilbury FC are known. Tilbury was used as the location for Sacha Baron Cohen’s comedy “Grimsby” and may not be the most aesthetically pleasing location for the ground. However on arrival Chadfields, though ageing and creaking in parts, boasts some decent facilities and a good welcome and atmosphere.

The ground has a capacity of 4000 (350 seated) benefiting from a covered grandstand, with seating for 120, whilst also providing cover for two standing terraces. There is another seated stand (230) above the changing facilities, as well as a bar and clubhouse. The ground benefits from a grass pitch, which looked very dry and sparse tonight, although the repeated rain showers would definitely have helped it recover.

Tilbury FC play in the Isthmian League North and were founded in 1889 by workers from Tilbury Docks, hence their nickname. In 1978 the Dockers made the third round of the FA cup, where they lost 4-0, away to Stoke City. They are currently managed by John Coventry.

Romford FC were relegated from the Isthmian League North last season and find themselves in the Essex Senior League – Premier Division in 2022-23. Steve Butterworth, once manager of Isthmian League side, Great Wakering Rovers, was appointed to the Romford FC hotseat in May 2022.

Romford kicked off in an all white kit, while Tilbury wore purple shirts and black shorts. There was a real purpose and needle for both teams for this tie, due partly to local rivalries and partly the sense that Romford FC had a point to prove after their relegation.

After just five minutes, Romford FC’s Josh Wiggins hit a shot from 25 yards, which struck the inside of the post and went in. It caught me off guard and I failed to capture it which was a real shame, as it was a really special finish.

The remainder of the first half saw both sides creating chances. As is common in pre season games, the forwards sometimes lacked the final touch, when later in the season they’d be timing passes and shots better. Despite the best efforts of both sides, the score remained 0-1 at half time.

The second half continued in much the same pattern. Then, in the 65th minute, Romford extended their lead to 0-2, when Kris Newby showed resilience and drilled the ball home, following up from his blocked original free kick.

There was time before the end for Romford FC’s Tyrese Sibanda to fire in a shot which looked as if it had crossed the line but which was not given as a goal.

At the final whistle the teams left the pitch knowing they had given everything. This was an entertaining and hard fought game which capped a thoroughly enjoyable evening at Chadfields.