WEST HAM UNITED
theyflysohigh : Steve Marsh
FOOTBALL PROGRAMMES &
Memorabilia through the Decades
A Pictorial History
1952-53 Eastern Counties League
The Eastern Counties League has expanded. Although Newmarket Town have left to join the United Counties League and Wisbech Town have been accepted into the Midland League, the election of Crittall Athletic, Eynesbury Rovers and Stowmarket will bring the number up to 19 clubs.
Preliminary reports indicate that our "A" Team will find Eastern Counties League soccer of a higher standard than ever during the coming season. New members Stowmarket, Crittall Athletic and Eynesbury Rovers are all up-and-coming clubs who view their entry into the League as an honour.
STOWMARKET
Cricket Meadow
3 - 1 (Gregory J. 2, Dixon)
23 August 1952
Chiswick
Cooper
Armstrong
Malcolm
Brown
Noakes
Bing
Gregory J.
Dixon
Foan
Gunning
Our “A” Team opened their Eastern Counties League campaign with a trip to Stowmarket Town - a fixture that carried a touch of intrigue. Stowmarket are newcomers to the competition yet already boast four or five professionals in their ranks, among them Joe Gibson, who wore claret and blue during the 1949–50 season. They are coached by Jack Little, the former Ipswich Town stalwart, and clearly intent on making an impression at this higher level.
The home side began at a blistering pace, eager to show the 2,000‑strong crowd that they belonged. Their early urgency paid off when they snatched the lead after half an hour, a moment that briefly unsettled the Hammers as they adjusted to the pronounced slope of the ground.
But once West Ham found their bearings, the balance of the match shifted. A neat, flowing move involving Eric Armstrong, Doug Bing, and Johnny Gregory sliced through the Stowmarket defence, and Gregory applied the finishing touch five minutes later to restore parity.
After the interval the difference in conditioning became unmistakable. The Hammers’ extra training and sharper fitness began to tell, and they gradually took command of the contest. Gregory struck again to put West Ham ahead, his second goal reflecting both his timing and his growing influence on the match. With five minutes remaining, Tommy Dixon settled matters, driving home the third to complete a confident 3–1 victory.
CRITTALL ATHLETIC : ECL Cup (Second Round)
Cressing Road
2 - 3 (Chapman, Gunning)
6 September 1952
Chiswick
Cooper
Armstrong
Belcher
Brown
Noakes
Bing
Chapman
Cantwell
Burdon
Gunning
REPORT:
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ARSENAL 'A'
Claremont Road
0 - 3
10 September 1952
Chiswick
Devlin
Cooper
McGowan
Armstrong
Noakes
Southren
Chapman
Dixon
Foan
Gunning
REPORT:
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HARWICH & PARKESTON
Royal Oak Ground
0 - 2
13 September 1952
Chiswick
Cooper
Marks R.
Belcher
Armstrong
Noakes
Bing
Matthews T.
Dixon
Burdon
Gunning
The visit to Harwich began in unsettling fashion. Just outside the town the players came upon the aftermath of a serious road accident, a scene that cast an immediate shadow over the afternoon. Fortunately, our assistant‑trainer Harry Butler was on hand to administer vital first‑aid to the injured man - a prompt intervention later acknowledged in person by the local police superintendent, who made a special visit to the Harwich ground to offer his thanks.
It was hardly the ideal preparation for a match, and the incident clearly lingered in the minds of our XI. Harwich & Parkeston struck twice in the opening four minutes, capitalising on West Ham’s shaken start and giving themselves a cushion before the Hammers had properly settled.
From that point on, however, the match became almost entirely one‑way traffic. West Ham’s third string dominated possession, pressed relentlessly, and spent long stretches hammering at the home goal. Time and again they forced openings, only to find the final touch missing or the Harwich defence just resilient enough to survive.
Despite their sustained pressure, the Hammers could not find a way through, and the home side preserved both their clean sheet and their unbeaten record with a two‑goal margin that owed much to those chaotic opening minutes.
CHELMSFORD CITY Reserves
New Writtle Street
2 - 1 (Gazzard, Stanley)
17 September 1952
Turner A.
Cooper
Nelson B.
Armstrong
Brown
Noakes
Hooper
Gazzard
Cantwell
Matthews B.
Stanley W.
We held a 1–0 lead at the interval, thanks to a moment of real quality from Bill Stanley - a “B” Team product making his first appearance for the “A” side. Cutting in smartly from the left, he drove an angled shot into the net in unmistakably Jimmy Ruffell fashion, a finish that drew appreciative nods from those who remember the great man’s trademark strikes.
Chelmsford levelled after the break from a penalty awarded for hands, but the Hammers refused to let the setback unsettle them. With fifteen minutes remaining, Gerry Gazzard struck the winner, a goal that carried more significance than the scoreline alone. The wet, skidding ball and bumpy surface made clean control difficult, yet Gazzard - returning from injury - handled the conditions superbly, showing he is well on the road to full recovery.
Alongside him, Barry Mathews, the youngster from Penzance, offered further encouragement. His style, uncannily reminiscent of Gazzard’s own, dovetailed neatly with the senior inside‑forward, and together they provided excellent service to Noel Cantwell. Noel himself, back after a couple of weeks out with a pulled thigh muscle, looked increasingly assured as the match wore on, hinting strongly at better things to come.
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CAMBRIDGE UNITED
Abbey Stadium
0 - 3
20 September 1952
Chiswick
Armstrong
Nelson
Belcher
Brown
Noakes
Bing
Gazzard
Cantwell
Matthews B.
Stanley W.
It was an Eastern Counties League fixture that promised a proper test, and Cambridge United drew an excellent attendance eager to see whether their strong early‑season form would hold. In the end the home side added a crisp, assured 3–0 victory to an already impressive record.
West Ham travelled with a decidedly mixed XI. Alongside several regulars, two “B” Team youngsters - Mathews and Stanley - were given their chance to show themselves at senior level. Gerry Gazzard, meanwhile, was handed another examination of his recently troubled knee. There was a worrying reaction during the first half, but after some firm and effective manipulation he was able to resume with reasonable comfort.
By the time Gazzard returned, however, Cambridge had already struck twice. The Hammers worked hard to “break the ice”, pushing forward with determination and refusing to let the game drift, but the pattern of the afternoon remained stubbornly against them. Cambridge added the only goal of the second half, rounding off a performance that underlined why they were so well‑placed in the table.
A tough outing, then - but one that still offered valuable minutes for the youngsters, a meaningful test for Gazzard, and another small chapter in the club’s long story of development sides learning their trade the hard way.
GILLINGHAM Reserves
Priestfield Stadium
0 - 4
4 October 1952
Chiswick
Cooper
Nelson
Belcher
Brown
Noakes
Bing
Gregory J.
Cantwell
Dixon
Gunning
We travelled to Gillingham Reserves for an Eastern Counties League fixture and came away with a sharp reminder of the division’s unforgiving nature, beaten by four clear goals. There are no excuses offered for the reverse, though losing Doug Bing after just ten minutes certainly did nothing to steady our cause.
From that point on the home side dictated the pace, took their chances, and ensured the afternoon belonged entirely to them. For the Hammers it was a tough setback - and one that underlined how quickly a game can tilt when early misfortune strikes.
HARWICH & PARKESTON
Royal Oak Ground
5 - 1 (Dixon 3, Chapman, Hooper)
11 October 1952
Chiswick
Nelson
Cantwell
Armstrong
Brown
Noakes
Hooper
Chapman
Dixon
Belcher
Gunning
Our “A” Team sent a jolt through the Eastern Counties League, dismantling the League leaders at Harwich with a stunning 5–1 victory. The E.C.L. Bulletin summed it neatly: "West Ham’s defeat of Harwich was perhaps not according to expectations, but was none‑the‑less deserved. Harwich reports state that the home club was not playing below the form which had taken them to the top of the table, but that West Ham were just that much better. For once, even the locals could offer no complaint."
The Hammers began in devastating fashion, three goals to the good inside the opening ten minutes. Tommy Dixon struck first, driving home from the edge of the penalty area. He added a second soon after, finishing a pass from Eddie Chapman, who had carved through the defence from inside‑right. Chapman then made it three, lashing a left‑footer from Harry Gunning’s pass.
Shortly before half‑time Chapman was involved again, his shot parried by the goalkeeper and Harry Hooper following up smartly to give West Ham a commanding 4–0 lead. Harwich managed to pull one back before the interval, but the pattern of the afternoon had already been set.
Dixon completed his hat‑trick later in the game, sealing a performance that shocked the division and underlined the quality running through the side. Against the League leaders, away from home, it was as emphatic as victories come - and fully earned.
CLACTON TOWN
Old Road Ground
3 - 1 (Dixon 3)
18 October 1952
Chiswick
Nelson
Cantwell
Armstrong
Brown
Noakes
Hooper
Chapman
Dixon
Belcher
Gunning
Although our XI lost the toss and were forced to face both the sun and a stiff wind, they still marched into the interval three goals to the good, with Tommy Dixon credited with a first‑half hat‑trick.
The opening twenty minutes were largely midfield sparring, but once Jimmy Belcher and Eddie Chapman combined down the right the game cracked open. Chapman’s delivery was perfect, and Dixon met it with a clean, decisive header for the first counter. From there the Hammers stayed firmly on top, the defence breaking up every home attack with calm authority.
Dixon’s second came when the home custodian spilled Chapman’s centre, leaving our centre‑forward the simplest of tap‑ins. Just on half‑time Alf Noakes released Harry Gunning, the left‑winger beating two men before squaring beautifully for Dixon to complete his treble and give us a commanding lead.
An injury to Chapman early in the second half reduced us to ten men, but the homesters still found no way through until ten minutes from time, when a penalty allowed them to reduce the arrears. By then the damage was long done - and Dixon’s hat‑trick had already written the afternoon’s headline.
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LOWERSTOFT TOWN
Crown Meadow
3 - 2 (Belcher, Dixon, Matthews)
25 October 1952
Chiswick
Cooper
Cantwell
Armstrong
Brown
Noakes
Hooper
Matthews T.
Dixon
Belcher
Gunning
The following extract from this week’s E.C.L. Bulletin speaks for itself - and for the growing reputation of our young, fast‑improving side:
“Today I saw that much‑improved West Ham team of young promising players make a hat‑trick of wins against seaside towns. They followed their victories against Harwich and Clacton with another against Lowestoft Town. Fast‑moving and extremely accurate in their passing, they might possibly have made that one too many in the vicinity of goal, but they provided excellent entertainment and were worth their two points. Centre‑forward Dixon had scored a hat‑trick against both Harwich and Clacton but could manage only one today. Both wingers took the eye… Altogether, quite an interesting game and one with much entertainment value.”
Those words capture the afternoon neatly: sharp movement, crisp passing, and a side brimming with confidence. Tommy Dixon added just the one this time, but the scoring mantle was shared impressively. Jimmy Belcher struck well, and Terry Mathews - newly graduated from our “B” Team in the Metropolitan League - marked his step up with a goal that underlined his promise.
KING'S LYNN
The Walks
0 - 7
1 November 1952
Chiswick
Cantwell
Nelson
Cooper
Armstrong
Belcher
Hooper
Bing
Dixon
Matthews T.
Gunning
Our trip to King’s Lynn brought about the heaviest defeat we have ever sustained in the Eastern Counties League - a result made all the more surprising given the excellent recent form of our “A” Team. At half‑time the score stood at only 1–0 against us, and there was little indication of the collapse to come.
After the interval, however, we simply could not stem the tide. Cliff Whitelum, the former Sunderland forward, took ruthless advantage of our difficulties, scoring five times in quick succession to secure both points for the Linnets and turn the afternoon into a chastening one for the Hammers.
Service calls and injuries meant our XI took the field with a decidedly makeshift look, and once King’s Lynn found their rhythm there was no way back. With only two points dropped in nine games, the Linnets are firmly in the hunt for championship honours - though today their attention shifts to their F.A. Cup tie at Grays Athletic, the winners progressing to the First Round Proper.
CLACTON TOWN
Old Road Ground
0 - 3
8 November 1952
Chiswick
Nelson
Cantwell
Bing
Robinson
Belcher
Hooper
Chapman
Dixon
Petchey
Gunning
Had our side taken the chances that fell their way in the opening twenty minutes, they might well have repeated the 3–1 victory secured on the same ground only three weeks earlier. Instead, after failing to convert that early pressure, they found themselves one down at half‑time.
The second half brought no relief. Forced to play into a gale, the Hammers struggled to build any sustained attacks and were pushed back for long spells. Two further goals were conceded without reply, and the afternoon slipped away - a reminder of how quickly a match can turn when early opportunities go begging and the elements refuse to lend a hand.
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EYNESBURY ROVERS
Alfred Hall Memorial Ground
0 - 3
15 November 1952
Chiswick
Cooper
Cantwell
Armstrong
Brown
Noakes
Hooper
Bing
Dixon
Belcher
Gunning
Eynesbury Rovers are newcomers to the Eastern Counties League this season, but they have settled impressively. Five of their players turned out for the Suffolk County XI last week, and the club has already shown it is far more than a token addition to the competition.
This was our first meeting with the Rovers in the E.C.L., the match taking place at Eynesbury. After a rather slow start to their campaign, the Suffolk side have pieced together a strong run of results - and they continued that form with a 3–0 victory over our third‑string.
The Hammers worked hard but could not disrupt a home side playing with confidence, cohesion and the momentum of recent success. For Eynesbury, it was another step forward in their debut season; for us, a reminder of the depth and strength now emerging across the league.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 'A'
Upton Park
1 - 1 (Stanley)
17 November 1952
Chiswick
Cooper
Nelson
Bing
Brown
Armstrong
Hooper
Matthews T.
Coles A.
Petchey
Stanley W.
Lack of punch in attack proved our undoing, though there was encouragement in the way that shortcoming was partly remedied in Monday’s meeting with Tottenham Hotspur “A” on this ground.
For the Spurs fixture we introduced A. Coles, a youngster currently serving in the R.A.F., who won a Welsh Amateur International cap last season and hails from a small village near Newport. His inclusion added freshness and purpose to the forward line.
We took a deserved interval lead through William Stanley, whose finish capped a bright passage of play. The Lilywhites, however, levelled after the break, and despite our improved thrust in attack the match closed at 1–1, honours even.
A draw, then - but one that hinted at better balance and sharper intent in the final third.
COLCHESTER ROVERS Reserves
Layer Road
2 - 1 (Bing, Dixon)
22 November 1952
Chiswick
Cooper
Cantwell
Armstrong
Brown
Belcher
Bing
Petchey
Dixon
Matthews T.
Hooper
The “A” Team returned to winning ways, edging Colchester United Reserves at Layer Road by the odd goal in three. Tommy Dixon and Doug Bing supplied the finishes, and both goals carried the stamp of a side determined to reassert itself.
It was a good, honest contest - keenly fought, evenly matched, and fairly reflected by the final scoreline. The Hammers showed real fighting spirit throughout, digging in when required and striking with purpose when the chances came. In the end that resolve proved decisive, and the victory felt fully earned.
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CAMBRIDGE UNITED
Abbey Stadium
0 - 1
29 November 1952
Chiswick
Nelson
Cantwell
Bing
Brown
Petchey
Hooper
Chapman
Dixon
Belcher
Gunning
Our “A” Team’s meeting with the Eastern Counties League leaders was almost abandoned altogether, for the Cambridge United ground lay under three inches of snow. After much deliberation it was decided to press ahead, and the E.C.L. Bulletin captured the outcome perfectly: “Reports say that it was one of the best games seen at Newmarket Road all season.”
Two strong sides were handled by an excellent referee who kept a tight grip on a tough, competitive match that genuinely could have swung either way. In the end the home side scored the only goal of the second half, and against the run of play too, for we were pressing hard at the time. Yet there were no regrets on either side. Despite the conditions, despite the stakes, it proved a thoroughly enjoyable contest - fast, honest, and worthy of its billing.
CHELMSFORD CITY Reserves
New Writtle Street
1 - 1 (Chapman)
6 December 1952
Chiswick
Nelson
Cooper
Bing
Brown
Noakes
Hooper
Gazzard
Chapman
Matthews T.
Gunning
There was real doubt about whether the match would take place at all, the pitch being in such poor condition, but after much deliberation it was decided to play - and our lads found themselves up against a strong Chelmsford side fielding their full first‑team forward line, with no Southern League fixture to occupy them.
Despite that, the Hammers gained the upper hand in the first half. A forward pass from Alf Noakes released Eddie Chapman, who drove his shot home to give us a deserved lead at the interval. Chelmsford dominated the opening twenty minutes after the restart and levelled a quarter‑hour into the second period, but the Hammers rallied strongly in the closing stages and were pressing hard when the final whistle blew with the score at 1–1.
The main point of interest was the welcome return of Gerry Gazzard to our colours. Naturally he took things carefully, unwilling to risk his recently damaged knee, but even so he showed enough to suggest that he has come through his operation successfully. His presence alone added a lift to the afternoon.
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KING'S LYNN
The Walks
2 - 1 Dixon, Hooper [pen])
13 December 1952
Chiswick
Nelson
Cooper
Malcolm
Brown
Noakes
Bing
Moroney
Dixon
Petchey
Hooper
At The Walks, our “A” Team produced one of the surprise results of the season, halting King’s Lynn’s charge towards the top of the table by inflicting their third League defeat of the campaign. The Linnets had been in formidable form, stringing together a run of victories that threatened to carry them into the leading position - but the Hammers broke that momentum with a disciplined, determined display.
The goals came from Tommy Dixon, who struck with his usual sharpness, and Harry Hooper, who converted a penalty with calm authority. Together they ensured a thoroughly deserved success, one that carried both weight and significance given the opposition’s standing.
CHELSEA 'A'
Upton Park
2 - 1 (Dixon, Matthews)
15 December 1952
Chiswick
Nelson
Cooper
Malcolm
Brown
Noakes
Hooper
Gazzard
Dixon
Matthews T.
Gunning
Tommy Dixon was among the scorers again on Monday, when we faced Chelsea “A” on this ground. He cancelled out an early goal from the Pensioners, and Terry Mathews struck the decider after the interval to secure a well‑earned victory. The match went ahead despite heavy morning snowfall, though it was understandable that conditions were far from ideal. Gerry Gazzard was given another run‑out, continuing his steady return to fitness.
We also received a commendation in this week’s E.C.L. Bulletin, following our offer to lend Cambridge United one of our amateur goalkeepers when they found themselves in a tight spot last weekend with both regular custodians injured. While we appreciate the League’s “pat on the back,” it should be said that such gestures are by no means unusual. The spirit of friendliness among Eastern Counties League clubs is such that any member will help another whenever possible - and it is precisely this camaraderie that makes the competition such a good League to be part of.
CRITTALL ATHLETIC
Cressing Road
2 - 1 (Dixon 2)
20 December 1952
Chiswick
Nelson
Cooper
Petchey
Cantwell
Noakes
Bing
Matthews T.
Dixon
Belcher
The home side belied their lowly position in the table, making us fight all the way, but our very young XI matched their effort with an enthusiastic, spirited display that earned both points by a 2–1 margin. Tommy Dixon was the difference once again, scoring both goals and taking his Eastern Counties League tally to thirteen.
It was a hard, honest contest - the sort of game where youthful energy had to meet resilience - and the Hammers found both when it mattered. Dixon’s finishing touch proved decisive, and the win carried the stamp of a side growing in confidence with every outing.
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LOWERSTOFT TOWN
Crown Meadow
5 - 2 (Hooper 3 [1 pen]. Hawkins 2)
27 December 1952
Chiswick
Cooper
Cantwell
Malcolm
Brown
Noakes
Bing
Chapman
Hawkins
Petchey
Hooper
Delays caused by thick fog around Ipswich meant a late and uncomfortable arrival at the ground, our lads presenting themselves already changed and still feeling the effects of a hectic, stop‑start journey. When the homesters scored after ten minutes, prospects looked anything but bright.
But once spirits rallied, the Hammers produced a fine exhibition of team‑work and took complete command. Harry Hooper was at the heart of everything, having a hand in all five goals. He struck the first two himself to give us an interval lead, and after the Town had equalised he twice laid on chances for Bert Hawkins, who finished both with conviction. To round off his afternoon, Hooper completed his hat‑trick from the penalty spot, sealing a 5–2 victory that had seemed unlikely in the early stages.
Four wins in succession have now lifted our third‑string into a challenging position, helped by the holiday slip‑ups of the clubs at the head of the table. Yet today brings another stern test, for Bury Town have surged clear of the lower rungs by taking six points from their three holiday fixtures and arrive very much on the crest of a wave.
BURY TOWN
King's Road
0 - 1
3 January 1953
Chiswick
Nelson
Cantwell
Malcolm
Brown
Noakes
Burdon
Bing
Dixon
Matthews T.
Gunning
REPORT:
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CHELSEA 'A'
Stamford Bridge
2 - 1 (Dixon, Petchey)
10 January 1953
Chiswick
Chapman
Cooper
Bing
Nelson A.
Noakes
Hooper
Petchey
Dixon
Matthews T.
Gunning
Injuries, Service calls and illness meant our “A” Team travelled to Stamford Bridge with a decidedly makeshift line‑up for their Eastern Counties League meeting with Chelsea “A”. Yet the disruption did nothing to blunt their resolve, and they came away with an excellent 2–1 victory that keeps them firmly in the championship hunt.
The Pensioners struck first after twenty minutes, but ten minutes later George Petchey levelled matters with his first goal of the season - a long, raking shot from the left touchline that caught the home defence flat‑footed. The sides crossed over at 1–1, but after the interval the Hammers gradually took command.
Midway through the second half Tommy Dixon - ever the poacher - dispossessed the opposing centre‑half and drove home a first‑time shot to take his E.C.L. tally to fourteen. It proved the decisive moment of a hard, honest contest, and a fine reward for a patched‑up side that refused to yield.
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EYNESBURY ROVERS
Alfred Hall Memorial Ground
4 - 3 (Dixon, Gunning, Hooper, Matthews)
17 January 1953
Chiswick
Cooper
Cantwell
Bing
Brown
Noakes
Hooper
Matthews T.
Dixon
Belcher
Gunning
The “A” Team climbed into fifth place in the Eastern Counties League with a stirring 4–3 victory at Eynesbury, achieved only after fighting back from two goals down in the early stages. It was a performance full of grit and spirit, and the home officials - newcomers to the League this season - were generous in their praise for the resilience shown by our young side.
One wag even suggested that our XI were trying to impress the Hammers’ Chairman, Mr. R. H. Pratt, who happened to be present to watch the third‑string in action. If so, they chose the right afternoon for it. The comeback was as bold as it was determined, and the win carried the unmistakable stamp of a team growing in confidence and character.
GORLESTON
Recreation Ground
1 - 3 (Hooper)
24 January 1953
Chiswick
Nelson
Cooper
Petchey
Brown
Noakes
Hooper
Matthews T.
Hawkins
Matthews B.
Gunning
The Seasiders, bolstered by several experienced men - including former Charlton Athletic forward “Sailor” Brown - used that know‑how to decisive effect, and it was chiefly this advantage that settled the issue by a 3–1 margin in their favour.
The Hammers nevertheless played some good football. Harry Hooper struck our goal, and both amateur inside‑forwards acquitted themselves admirably, showing promising form in professional company and never looking out of place. It was a defeat, but not a discouraging one: the effort was honest, the football often tidy, and the younger men showed enough to suggest better days ahead.
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STOWMARKET
Cricket Meadows
0 - 0
7 February 1953
Chiswick
Nelson
Cooper
Malcolm
Brown
Cantwell
Chapman
Bing
Hawkins
Belcher
Noakes
After the frosty weather earlier in the week, the ground had thawed just enough to leave a slippery top surface, and conditions were far from conducive to good football. Even so, both sides produced a commendable display. We repelled every attack the home side mounted, yet despite striking the bar three times, we could not find the deciding goal, and the match closed at nil‑nil.
A collection was taken for the Flood Relief Fund, raising £16. Though not as substantial as the sums gathered at King’s Lynn (£150) and Cambridge (£36) on the same day, it was a fine effort from the followers of these newcomers to the E.C.L. Stowmarket also showed their generous spirit by offering to lend gear to any League club suffering loss through the floods - a gesture that speaks well for the camaraderie that runs through the competition.
CRITTALL ATHLETIC
Cressing Road
8 - 1 (Dixon 3, Tucker 2. Matthews, Petchey, Southren)
14 February 1953
Chiswick
Cooper
Cantwell
Malcolm
Brown
Bing
Southren
Petchey
Dixon
Matthews T.
Tucker
Crittall’s struck first and held their lead until ten minutes before the interval, when two quick goals turned the tide in our favour. After the break our XI produced an absolutely brilliant display, and the goals came at regular intervals as the Hammers swept to an 8–1 victory - our record margin in the Eastern Counties League.
Tommy Dixon helped himself to yet another hat‑trick, continuing his remarkable run of scoring form. The remaining goals were shared out between Ken Tucker (2), George Petchey, Terry Mathews, and Tommy Southren, each finish adding to a second half that bordered on irresistible.
A performance of real authority - and one that will sit proudly among the standout results of the season.
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GILLIGHAM Reserves
Priestfield Stadium
2 - 0 (Noakes 2)
7 March 1953
Evans S.
Nelson
Cantwell
Bing
Walker R.
Belcher
Chapman
Petchey
Noakes
Matthews T.
Gunning
We seldom fare well on the Third Division club’s ground, but in this Eastern Counties League fixture we took two thoroughly deserved points from their Reserves. Our side held the edge for most of the afternoon and stood firm during the home team’s big push in the first twenty minutes after the interval.
Before that spell, our third‑string had already taken the lead. Alf Noakes chased a long ball straight up the middle, lobbed it over the advancing goalkeeper, and ran on to score - a neat, composed finish. In the final quarter‑hour we gained complete command, overrunning Gillingham’s defence, and Alf struck again with a crisp drive from the edge of the penalty area.
The match might have had a story‑book ending had our centre‑forward completed his hat‑trick from the spot, but his penalty slid just outside the post. Even so, the Hammers finished with a confident 2–0 victory, one that could easily have been wider.
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COLCHESTER UNITED Reserves
Layer Road
2 - 2 (Petchey 2)
12 March 1953
Chiswick
Nelson
Cantwell
Bing
Walker R.
Belcher
Woodgate
Matthews T.
Moroney
Petchey
Gunning
This match gave us the chance to test Terry Woodgate and Tommy Moroney after their recent injuries, a useful “try‑out” ahead of their hoped‑for return to the League side. The game itself was evenly contested, yet the home team edged in front before the interval and added a second almost immediately after the restart.
From that point, however, the Hammers came steadily into the picture. In the later stages Tommy Moroney twice opened up the defence with well‑judged passes, and George Petchey finished both movements with excellent goals to secure a point in a rousing finish. It was a spirited recovery, and the contributions of Woodgate and Moroney offered real encouragement for the weeks ahead.
GREAT YARMOUTH TOWN
Wellesley Recreation Ground
1 - 1 (Gunning)
14 March 1953
Taylor
Robinson
Nelson
Cooper
Walker R.
Belcher
Burdon
Hawkins
Noakes
Petchey
Gunning
The Town were somewhat fortunate to hold a 1–0 interval lead, for the referee had disallowed what almost everyone present felt was a perfectly good goal to our third‑string. Undeterred by that setback, the Hammers continued to command the greater share of the play, pressing forward with purpose and refusing to let the decision unsettle them.
Their persistence was justly rewarded when Harry Gunning drove home an excellent shot that left the home goalkeeper helpless, securing a fully deserved point. It was a fair outcome to a match in which our lads showed the stronger football and the steadier temperament.
A solid, honest performance - and one that might easily have yielded both points on another afternoon.
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NORWICH CITY 'A'
Boundary Park
1 - 4 (Gunning [pen])
18 March 1953
Chiswick
Nelson
Cantwell
Stanley T.
Walker R.
Belcher
Burdon
Gregory J.
Hawkins
Petchey
Gunning
We had our first taste of floodlit football this season when we visited Norwich City “A” for an Eastern Counties League fixture. The match was staged not at the City’s usual ground but at Boundary Park, where the unfamiliar surroundings — and the lights themselves - added a new flavour to the evening.
It was also the first appearance for T. Stanley, currently with Neville United of the Dagenham League, the same club from which we signed Ken Brown. Norwich, having already played several floodlit matches in recent weeks, clearly possessed the greater experience under the lamps, and they were deserving winners by a 4–1 margin.
Our team remained in Norwich overnight and returned home on Thursday morning - a useful trip, even if the result went against us, and another step in broadening the experience of a young, developing side.
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GORLESTON
Recreation Ground
4 - 3 (Gregory 2, Robinson 2 [1 pen])
26 March 1953
Hodges P.
Chapman
Nelson
Stanley T.
Walker R.
Belcher
Southren
Gregory J.
Robinson
Petchey
Dixon
REPORT:
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GREAT YARMOUTH TOWN
Wellesley recreation Ground
2 - 1 (Hawkins, Noakes)
4 April 1953
Taylor
Nelson
Cooper
Malcolm
Walker R.
Belcher
Matthews T.
Petchey
Noakes
Hawkins
Woodgate
Terry Woodgate was having a trial run after his recent injury, and he came through the test impressively until about twenty minutes from the end, when he unfortunately suffered a recurrence of his pulled thigh muscle. There was another casualty in Jimmy Belcher, who emerged with a black eye after a collision with one of the opposition.
Winning the toss, we had the wind at our backs in a first half played in brilliant sunshine before a good attendance. We made quick use of the conditions: George Petchey sent Woodgate away down the wing, Terry’s swift run ending with a cross‑shot that Bert Hawkins diverted neatly into the net. A pair of excellent saves from George Taylor kept the Seasiders at bay, and we increased our lead when Alf Noakes rammed home a terrific left‑foot drive from fully twenty‑five yards to put us two up at the interval.
In the second half Yarmouth paid the penalty for keeping the ball too close, though they did open up later and reduced the arrears fifteen minutes from time. It was a fine goal, headed home by player‑manager Bradley from a well‑placed cross from the wing. Even so, the Hammers deservedly held their lead to the finish - and nearly increased it in the closing seconds.
ARSENAL 'A'
Upton Park
2 - 3 (Gunning, Walker)
6 April 1953
Taylor
Chapman
Cooper
Petchey
Walker R.
Belcher
Woodward J.
Johnson
Robinson
Matthews T.
Gunning
We might well have added another brace of points to our total had we taken our chances against the Gunners. After fifteen minutes Harry Gunning put us ahead with a shot that struck the upright on its way in, and we continued to press until the visitors equalised three minutes later, bringing a 1–1 score at the interval.
After the breather, Arsenal’s bigger build helped them master the conditions more effectively. They went in front from a corner after about an hour’s play and added another to lead 3–1. The Hammers then came strongly into the game, forcing repeated openings, and Dick Walker reduced the arrears with a well‑struck effort to make it 3–2.
We pressed hard for the equaliser, but some outstanding goalkeeping kept us from finding the net again, giving Arsenal two valuable points in their championship bid. A spirited effort from our lads — and one that on another day might easily have brought a different outcome.
NORWICH CITY 'A'
Upton Park
3 - 3 (Hawkins, Moroney, Petchey)
9 April 1953
Chiswick
Chapman
Nelson
Moroney
Walker R.
Belcher
Malcolm
Matthews T.
Hawkins
Petchey
Gunning
Our “A” Team played their final home match of the Eastern Counties League season when they faced Norwich City “A”, and both sides rose well above the usual standard. It was an open, entertaining contest throughout, and the 3–3 draw that closed the afternoon was a fair reflection of the play.
The Canaries struck first with a crisp first‑time finish from a right‑wing cross, but within a minute of the restart we replied in kind from the opposite flank. Belcher began the move, slipped the ball to Gunning, and George Petchey completed the job with a neat finish. Our second goal came when Bert Hawkins chased a long ball up the middle and beat the advancing goalkeeper, giving us a 2–1 lead at half‑time.
A quarter‑of‑an‑hour after the interval Norwich equalised, and ten minutes later they moved ahead 3–2. But the Hammers were not finished. With about ten minutes to go Tommy Moroney stepped up into the inside‑forward position, and from a scramble following a corner he forced home the final goal to secure a deserved point.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 'A'
White Hart Lane
1 - 1 (Switzer)
16 April 1953
Bell J.
Nelson
Bond
Moroney
Walker R.
Petchey
Switzer T.
Woodward J.
Kearns
Urquhart D.
Foan
Our third‑string travelled to White Hart Lane to meet Tottenham Hotspur “A”, with three newcomers in the side: J. Bell, a goalkeeper from the Walthamstow area; T. Switzer, also from Walthamstow and now a member of our ground staff; and D. Urquhart, recently arrived from Scotland.
We gained an interval lead when Switzer marked his debut in style, driving home a splendid thirty‑yard shot after a neat combined movement with Foan. The greater experience of most of our team suggested we might press on to claim both points, but the homesters fought hard throughout and refused to yield. Their persistence was rewarded six minutes from time when Davis struck the equaliser, securing a point for Spurs.
A well‑contested match, and a promising showing from our newcomers - particularly Switzer, whose goal was the highlight of the afternoon.
BURY TOWN
King's Road
0 - 2
25 April 1953
Chiswick
Chapman
Nelson
Petchey
Hawkins
Belcher
Woodgate
Johnstone
Noakes
Matthews T.
Gunning
REPORT:
West Ham United’s 1952/53 Eastern Counties League campaign unfolded as a lively, often unpredictable season in which the club’s third‑string mixed youthful enthusiasm with flashes of genuine quality. It was a year marked by long trips, fog‑delayed kick‑offs, makeshift line‑ups, trialists returning from injury, and the steady emergence of several promising youngsters who carried the side through its best spells.
There were stirring victories, none more emphatic than the 8–1 rout of Crittall’s, a record E.C.L. margin in which Tommy Dixon claimed yet another hat‑trick and the supporting cast shared the rest. The team showed similar spirit at Eynesbury, fighting back from two goals down to win 4–3, earning praise from the home officials and even catching the eye of Chairman R. H. Pratt. Grit and resilience were recurring themes: a fog‑hampered journey to Ipswich ended with a 5–2 triumph, while a patched‑up XI at Stamford Bridge overcame Chelsea “A” 2–1 with George Petchey and Dixon decisive.
There were hard‑earned draws too, such as the nil‑nil at Stowmarket on a slippery thawed surface where the Hammers struck the bar three times, and the 3–3 home finale against Norwich City “A”, a match played well above the usual standard and settled only when Tommy Moroney forced home a late equaliser. Even defeats carried their own stories: the floodlit trip to Boundary Park saw Norwich’s greater experience under the lamps tell, and the Seasiders’ 3–1 win owed much to seasoned men like “Sailor” Brown.
Throughout the season, players such as Terry Woodgate and Tommy Moroney worked their way back to fitness, newcomers like Switzer and Bell made encouraging debuts, and stalwarts including Hawkins, Gunning, Petchey and Noakes produced decisive moments. It was a campaign of honest endeavour, spirited football, and a side steadily growing in character across the Eastern Counties League.
