Billericay's lead at the top of the Ryman Premier league was cut to 3 points after the Blues were held to a controversial goalless draw at Concord.

Craig Edwards was once again given a starting eleven headache with three players injured from Tuesday’s victory over Aveley. Sam Berry was ruled out after being diagnosed with Pneumonia on the lung whilst Craig Edwards Junior is likely to the rest of the season. Rob Swaine then pulled up in the warm-up but Edwards was able to call-up Jerome Sobers for his debut after spending the entire season out injured. He replaced Rob Swaine whilst another debutant, Glenn Poole came in for Craig Edwards. Greg Oates made his first start since October as he took up his regular role at right back.

Matches between these two sides are often tight physical affairs and this game was to be know different. The first half was predominantly Billericay. Jay May forced an early goaline clearance from Nicky Cowley and then Chris Wild appeared to be shoved in the back in the penalty area as he attacked the ball from a corner. Junior Luke was then denied by the referees whistle as he bore down on goal but the official failed to play the advantage and hauled play back for a Billericay free-kick. Richard Halle and Glenn Poole both went close before Emeka Onwubiko was tripped inside the area just before half time, the penalty appeals were waved away by the ref.

The second half saw Concord squeeze the game with space becoming a rare commodity. The home side had their best chance of the match when a Harry Elmes lob was headed off the line by Greg Oates. At the other end Richard Halle skied a glorious opportunity when well placed. Steve King was given his marching orders for the home side with a second bookable offence which was the cue for a late Blues rally at taking all the points. Concord held out for a point but the game ended with a mass brawl that saw the Blues Junior Luke given a straight red card.

Billericay have now reached the half way stage of the league campaign and currently hold a 3 point lead over Lowestoft. And with the signing of Poole plus the return of Oates and Sobers, the Blues will be confident that they are well placed to take on the rest of the league fixtures as they continue their promotion push.

Team: Brightly, Oates, Collis, Sobers, Wild, Poole, Luke, May, Onwubiko (Cousins 79), Chatting (Kpaka 87), Halle
Subs not used:  Hawes, Ottley