Despite major traffic delays and a late arrival, Grays started the game at a frenetic pace almost defying Enfield to keep up. That fact the home side did ensured an end to end opening period of the game. Keeper Nick Wilson escaped one fumble, but when he spilled the ball wide Tom Harvey made contact with Enfield's Bryan Hammatt while trying to clear and the referee pointed to the spot. Rudi Hall then secured entry to the 101 club converting from the spot. Grays had chances for a quick reply, a shot from Simon Thomas, then an effort from Chris Barry being fumbled by Rob Blackburne but he recovered to prevent the ball crossing the line. A second fumble by Blackburne resulted in a goal mouth melee, but Grays could not force the ball home. Thomas then was denied by Craig McKay's clearance and when Grays finally got the ball in the net it was ruled out for a barge on the keeper, Ishmael Welsh picking up a booking in the process. Enfield also had chances, Kirby connecting with a Byfield corner and Deniz Mehmet flashing a ball across the box but the pace was slowing now and chances were becoming fewer.
Grays found things got no better in the second half. Marvin Samuels challenge on Jordan Lockie was judged a fair one by the referee, but a high challenge on Sam Byfield moments later was viewed very differently. Samuels' Red card reduced his sides chances and they took a further blow three minutes later. Nick Wilson made a poor punched clearance from Byfield's deflected shot and Fabio Valenti's follow up shot skipped off the surface into the net. It also shook the confidence of the Grays team and although they had chances, Enfield looked more likely to add to their lead. Hammatt came close with a shot on the turn. Kirby cleared after Blackburne was caught out on the edge of his box, and McKay tested his keeper with a back header. Duram Reynolds and Wilson escaped a mix up as the final stages were played out. Mehmet and Morton forced a double save from Wilson, but Enfield could not add a third despite their late chances.
Report by Ciaran Glennon
Thanks to the Enfield Town website for the match report
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