A single goal separated Rovers from their Dr Marten's Premier Division visitors following a much improved performance.

Wakering went down 6-1 against Ryman Premier Thurrock at the weekend but rolled their sleeves up against a City side led by former Rovers player Steve Moseley.

Safe hands - City keeper Paul Nicholls claims a Wakering corner last night Picture: TERENCE BUNCH

Ryman Division One North side Wakering turned in a stout defensive performance to keep the Clarets at bay, with Mick Munro and Elliott Davidson catching the eye.

Gary Ewers had a chance to break the deadlock with a fierce shot on 31 minutes.

Chelmsford replied through Steve Norman's dipping shot that just went over the bar to leave the score goalless at half-time.

But five minutes after the restart Simon Clarke got the only goal of the game.

The City midfielder took the ball into the hosts' half before letting fly a terrific 30-yard shot that left Wakering goalkeeper Dave Hudson flat-footed.

Rovers battled hard to find an equaliser, with the hard-working Dave Collins finding himself thwarted by Clarets centre-half Russ Edwards on a number of occasions.

Published Wednesday, August 6, 2003

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