Redbridge travelled to Barking for what would be their first of SIX matches to be played in the next 14 days , tonight our attention was the Peter Butcher Memorial Trophy Semi Final as we looked to retain our trophy from last season.

The Motormen understandably made some changes to their starting line-up, one of those saw the return of Solomon Ogunwomoju who remains duel registered having played for Brentwood Town since December.

It was a perfect start for Redbridge who took the lead after just 5 minutes on the clock, a free kick was conceded by Jess Norey central to goal outside the box, up stepped former Barking player George Purcell to strike low past Harvey Simson in goal to put his side ahead.

Barking then came forward for the first time, ex Motorman Tim Ogunrinde weaved his way into the box however his shot was gathered by George Martin in the Redbridge goal.

Michael Pindy was finding space on the right flank and he managed to get a shot in which Simon pushed away and was able to collect before any Redbridge player could follow up on.

Ogunrinde again was involved in a good chance for Barking as his early shot almost caught Martin off guard however he was able to save with his legs to prevent the equaliser.

The match then went through a period where neither said really threatened , the closest coming when Joe Elliott went on a powerful run down the left before crossing looking for Purcell in the box however a defender was able to get there first and concede a corner.

With just a minute before the interval Barking were able to draw level, a cross in from the right from George Okoye found Elie Tshilumba who was able to squeeze the ball home at the far post from close range.

The 2nd period began with Redbridge applying the majority of the pressure, Simson having to be alert to palm away an effort from close range whilst at the other end Martin did well to deny Ogunrinde from a corner.

Jack Chawner then whipped in a free kick to the back post however the header at the far post was nodded wide, Joe Elliott then also got into a good position but was unable to keep his header down.

Samraj Gill then shot over a good chance when he had better options available to him in finding other players.

As the game looked to head towards possible extra time it looked as the away side would be more likely to find the winner as Barking appeared to run out of steam, a foul was conceded against Loui Hazlewood winning a free kick in a good position with just 2 minutes remaining.

Hazlewood who was making his first appearance since before New Year stood over the ball, those who know him are well aware of how dangerous he is at set pieces and that proved to be the case as he curled the ball high into the top corner giving Simson no chance and sending his side through into successive finals.

report by Adam Silver