Blues held to goalless draw by Barkingside at The Academy.

It was a surprisingly physical affair as both sides were guilty of some late challenges, as well as a first half melee involving a number of players from both sides. Despite having the majority of possession, Hakan’s new-look Grays side couldn’t penetrate the stubborn opposition defence.

There were changes in the second half as Jared Small, Charlie Hurlock, Papy Kanyuka amongst others all got valuable time on the pitch. As the rain began to fall, the home side began to shoot from distance a little more, however like the first half; neither side could break the deadlock.

Of the trialists, Petrit Elbi who featured for Brentwood Town last season against The Blues at Rookery Hill impressed during his second half appearance. The ex-Aveley striker who played with Joe Sweeney during their time at Brentwood looked lively as he partnered Small for the last third of the game.

Next up for Grays, is AFC Essex who are also based at Loughton. One-time Blues player Mark Wright has recently setup the side, and it features two of his ex-Bishop’s Stortford colleagues Tim Langer and Sam Taylor, whilst Jack Tweed also features. The match is to be played at The Academy with a 3pm kick off.