This years FA Vase run was ended by our neighbours who it had to be said out fought us both physically and tactically on a chilly afternoon.
Expectations were high in the Rovers camp that we could go a long way in this years competition however Hullbridge had other ideas. A bumper crowd of over 142 were present as both teams looked to make it into the National stages of the competition and hoping for a plum draw in the last 32.
Tom Ranger gave the Rovers defence a warning early on and had returning keeper Adam Seal, signed that morning on a dual contract as cover for Dale Brightly who had been called away on a family emergency, scrambling across the goal only to see the shot go inches wide.
The game was a scrappy affair and it looked as though only one goal would settle it and it did. That goal came from Rory Clark on 48 minutes.
This did little to stir Rovers who to be fair never looked like creating a clear cut chance and couldn't handle Hullbridge's battling qualities.Even Gary Paterson coming on couldn't stir his team mates out of their slumber as they failed to give him the service he thrives on.
As the game wore on tempers began to fray and bookings were dished out with regularity and it was clear this game would not end with a full compliment of players indeed it was Hullbridge's Clark who was given his marching orders towards the end.
The visitors easily saw out the game to progress and good luck to them in the next round against Sholing FC who are flying high in the Wessex League.
After the final whistle there were some unsavory scenes which were unnecessary and were hoping we never see those kind of incidents again and that's all ill write about it.

Rovers now need to regroup and refocus on the league now as games come up thick and fast with away ties at Clapton on the 10th, London Apsa on 12th and a home tie against Barking on the 14th. A season defining week im sure but which way it remains to be seen. As supporters we will be looking for a positive response.

Once again well done and good luck to Hullbridge who are flying the ESL flag in the last 32.

Rovers- Seal,Pugsley,Kent,Collins,Sparrow,Skelton,Radley,Smith,Trenkel,Johnson, Baldwin.

Subs- Read,Woodhouse,Paterson,Ansell,Phillips.