Blues joint-manager speaks highly of next opponents in Essex Senior League

Barking joint-boss Glen Golby is looking to put the frustration of a midweek abandonment to one side when they host Sporting Bengal United in the Essex Senior League on Saturday.

The Blues saw their league clash at London Bari on Wednesday called off at half time because of torrential rain with the hosts leading 1-0 through a goal from Junior Appiah.

Barking’s attentions now turn to a Bengal side who, along with boss and former Dagenham & Redbridge skipper Anwar Uddin, have been earning plaudits for their efforts this season.

Floundering near the bottom of the standings and struggling to field a side last season, United are now a mid-table outfit.

And Golby admits he himself has been impressed by Uddin’s work at the Mile End Stadium.

“Anwar has come from a professional background into a dressing room that was perhaps lacking that,” added Golby.

“Now they are a more professional outfit, it helps attracts players as they want to be involved in that kind of environment.

“It makes it more enjoyable for everyone at the club, meaning they have a more settled side, so I’ve been impressed by Anwar.”

Two players who won’t be featuring in either game for Barking this week are Ben Bradbury and Ashley Hawkins.

Bradbury chose to retire from football after last week’s draw at Newham, while Hawkins broke his ankle in the same game.

And Golby knows the absence of both players will be a loss for Barking as they look to continue their title assault.

“With Ben, we’ve lost a good amount of experience, but it hasn’t come as a shock as he told me recently he was struggling.

“It’s disappointing for Ashley as he got himself fit, scored twice at Newham, but is now out for the rest of the season.”