Carl Fletcher is still seeking his first win as O’s Head Coach and this weekend seems like the perfect opportunity with his side taking on a team four tiers below them in the league pyramid.
Fletcher’s side bounced back from last weekend’s disappointing defeat to Morecambe on Wednesday as they defeated Brighton U21’s on penalties to keep their Leasing.com Trophy hopes alive.
The match ended 1-1 after 90 minutes with Louis Dennis’ header cancelling out Danny Cashman’s opener.
This meant a shootout was required to determine who would earn an extra bonus point and O’s ‘keeper Sam Sargeant proved to be the hero saving two Seagulls spot-kicks before James Dayton stepped up to slot home the crucial penalty and earn the O’s that extra point.
Despite this being the first time in their history that they’ve reached the First Round, Maldon and Tiptree will come into this game believing they can cause an upset.
The Jammers, managed by former Ipswich and Colchester defender Wayne Brown, have racked up an astonishing 19 wins in their 20 games played this season with their only defeat coming on penalties to AFC Sudbury in the Velocity Trophy.
Team News
Conor Wilkinson returned from suspension last weekend against Morecambe but unfortunately for the O’s he picked up a knock and had to be substituted just 15 minutes after coming on.
Fletcher confirmed on Wednesday night that this match might come too soon for the former Gillingham striker and that might also be the case for fellow casualties Sam Ling, Lee Angol and Jobi McAnuff.
Ones to Watch
Jorome Slew is a striker Orient will certainly have to be wary of on Sunday. The former Chester man has scored 20 goals in 20 appearances so far for the Essex based side and will be hoping to add to his impressive tally this weekend at the Breyer Group Stadium.
Another player to look out for is left back Al-Amin Kazeem. The 17 year old is on loan from Colchester United and his fine recent performances saw him pick up Maldon’s Player of the Month award for October.
Coming to the Game?
The match takes place this Sunday November 10th with kick off scheduled for 12:45pm. Tickets are still available with prices ranging from £1-10.
