LITTLE Oakley claimed an impressive 2-0 win over Essex Senior League leaders Walthamstow Town, at the Memorial Ground, writes LARRY DOBKIN.

Man of the match Harry Mann continued his scoring streak and Sam Cooke also netted, as the Acorns claimed victory.

James Good took charge of the game for Oakley, with boss Matt Carmichael absent after contracting Covid-19.

Wood's powerful header flew just over the bar for the Acorns, before the hosts took the lead.

Town keeper Cekezi had hands on the ball following Mann's fierce volley but could not stop it crashing into the back of the net.

Walthamstow were not going to lay down and mounted several attacks.

But while they were skilfully formed, they did not trouble Oakley and no chances were given and the hosts went in at the break ahead.

The second half started with two quick Oakley attacks.

Brothers' throw saw Beck head the ball out to the edge of the area, from where Mann's shot away flew wide.

This attack was quickly followed by long ball out of the Oakley defence reaching the fast Rowe who set off down the wing.

Rowe got to the byline and floated a cross to Mann, who fired a driven shot wide of the post.

Walthamstow responded and came close to an equaliser when Pinto's arrowed effort from a centre position 22 yards out was heading towards the top corner, only for Joyce to make a fingertip save that was then cleared by Dobkin.

With the contest in midfield getting heated, Garrard's late tackle saw referee Wood again go for a card.

It was a second yellow for Walthamstow's Fletcher, who saw red and finding the decision somewhat apoplectic.

Despite their numerical disadvantage, the visitors continued to attack.

Cooke showed great pace and strength to get to the ball and with the coolest of finishes, passed the ball into the bottom corner of the net.

Mann had a shot deflected off for a corner, before Rowe saw his show well saved after a neat interchange with Brothers.

The resulting corner saw a Wood header from a corner travel wide of the post.

Walthamstow almost pulled a goal back when Cole glided the ball goalwards but Joyce, who had a solid game, punched clear.