Redbridge’s quick turnaround from Saturday’s league defeat to Wroxham ended in disappointment as they exited the London Senior Cup at the first hurdle, falling 3–2 to Isthmian South Central side Hendon. It was the first meeting between the two sides since the 2015/16 semi-final, and once again, Hendon came out on top to maintain their long unbeaten record against the Motormen.

Manager Chris Taylor made several changes from the weekend’s fixture, handing starts to Emmanuel Kwatchey, Kai Thomas-Fraser, and Reuben Campbell, while Nidal Berri returned to the bench.

The hosts made a lively start, with Ayodeji Olukoga crossing for Campbell in the opening minute, only for the forward’s shot to be blocked. Solomon Ogunwomoju then curled narrowly wide as Redbridge pressed early.

However, it was Hendon who struck first. From their first corner, Rhodell Gordon’s delivery found skipper Dave Diedhiou unmarked at the far post, and the centre-half powered home a header past Samuel Nwabuko to make it 1–0.

The goal swung momentum Hendon’s way, with Florian Envoudou Ada causing constant problems. Only a superb last-ditch tackle from Kwatchey prevented him from doubling the visitors’ lead.

Against the run of play, Redbridge drew level. Mekael Williams’ effort was spilled by goalkeeper Joshua Strizovic, and Ogunwomoju reacted quickest to slot home the rebound from close range.

Buoyed by the equaliser, the hosts pushed forward. Pitoula-Wabo twice went close, and Olukoga was denied one-on-one by Strizovic as Redbridge finished the half strongly. At the other end, Envoudou Ada thought he’d restored Hendon’s lead, but an offside flag cut short the celebrations.

Half-time: Redbridge 1–1 Hendon

The second half began with impact from substitute Nidal Berri, introduced for the injured Campbell. Within a minute of the restart, Redbridge were ahead — Napa showing composure to finish clinically and make it 2–1.

The lead, however, was short-lived. Hendon responded through Javon Marquis, whose dangerous cross found Envoudou Ada at the back post to tap in a deserved equaliser.

The game opened up with both sides trading chances. Berri went close after a mazy run, while Olukoga saw a fierce effort tipped over by Strizovic. But it was Hendon who regained control, as Keagan Cole was given too much space on the edge of the box and picked his spot perfectly, firing into the far corner for 3–2.

Redbridge pressed hard late on, aided by over ten minutes of stoppage time following an injury to Henry Day. Substitute Soumen Nandi whipped in a fine cross for Ogunwomoju, but the forward could only shoot straight at Strizovic when well placed — a miss that summed up Redbridge’s night.

Hendon held firm to book their place in the next round, where they’ll host Leyton Orient. For Redbridge, the wait for a first-ever victory over the North London side continues — 15 meetings and counting.

Report by Adam Silver