A fourth-minute strike from Alex Bilby proved to be the decisive goal as Havering ground out a hard-fought 1-0 win away against Old Southendians on Saturday.

Havering flew out of the traps from the opening whistle, driving into the attacking 'D' within the opening exchanges and causing instant panic in the Old Southendians defence. Just four minutes in, the ball fell to Eli Cook, who took a shot toward goal. The home keeper made the initial block, sparking a frantic, ping-pong-style scramble in the goalmouth. Patrick Bradshaw pounced on the rebound and attempted to force it over the line, with the keeper parrying multiple successive efforts. Finally, after a chaotic flurry of close-range shots and saves, Alex Bilby then charged into the melee, fought for possession, carved out just enough space for himself, and squeezed a shot past the line to give the visitors an early lead.

The goal set the pattern for a mixed afternoon for Havering. At their best, the visitors executed clean, controlled spells of possession play to dictate the pace. However, erratic passages of play allowed Old Southendians to grow into the match and apply sustained pressure on the Havering backline.

Despite the home side's growing dominance in territory during the second half, Havering’s defence held firm. A combination of resolute defending, key saves from goalkeeper Seb Waters, and a lack of clinical finishing in front of goal from Old Southendians ensured that scrappy early opener was enough to secure all three points and a clean sheet.