CONCORD Rangers come out on top in an eagerly contested island derby against close rivals Canvey.

Canvey, who had played less than 24 hours previously, to record a win over a Gillingham XI, put out some of their younger players but it was a new signing who made an immediate impact.

After only two minutes, ex-Hendon hotshot Anthony Thomas outmuscled Steve King to find himself one-on-one with Jamie Butler, and he calmly stroked it into the corner.

Concord’s returning forward Lewis Taaffe hit the crossbar before the Beachboys got their equaliser. With 15 minutes gone, a corner dropped to King in the box and he side-footed home.

The lead didn’t last long as Marlon Agyakwa burst down the wing to cross for Thomas to net his second of the match.

Not to be outdone, King doubled his tally with a header from a corner before Taaffe slotted home at the far post, following another set piece.

The match was in aid of Concord and Canvey’s respective charities – the Indee Rose Trust and the Danny Green Fund – with charity the real winner on the day.

Great Wakering Rovers continued their pre-season with a win over Essex Senior League opponents Greenhouse London.

Rovers goalscorers were Billy Radley (two) and Joe Skeels in a comfortable win for the Ryman North’s newboys.

Basildon United fell to a 3-1 defeat at home against Tilbury in their latest outing. The Dockers took the lead before being pegged back by Basildon but two Harry Cook goals saw the Dockers take the win.

Bowers & Pitsea drew 2-2 with Olympian side Frenford Senior. Both Bowers goals were netted by new signing Martin Llewellyn.

Southend Manor came unstuck against Berkhamsted, of the Spartan South Midlands Division, losing 4-1. Manor went 4-0 down before Charlie Little scored a consolation.

Hullbridge Sports were comfortable winners at lower league rivals Rayleigh Town. Sports won 4-0 thanks to goals from Wallace, Clark, Nash and George.