Football Analyst

Leyton Orient continued their 100% record to their League 2 campaign with a 2-0 home win over Bristol Rovers. A first half penalty from Lloyd James and a Jay Simpson strike on the stroke of half time sealed Orient’s fifth win out of five. James converted from the spot after Paul McCallum had been fouled by James Clarke before Man of the Match Simpson calmly slotted home just before half time.

O’s manager Ian Hendon off the back of four straight wins in the league named an unchanged side for the fifth time in the league. However instead of the normal midfield diamond, Hendon opted for a flat midfield 4 with Cox moving to a wide left position and Pritchard on the right. New loan signing Joe Maguire was named on the bench after his loan move from Liverpool yesterday.

Rovers boss Darrell Clarke made only 1 enforced change with Tyler Lyttle replacing the injured Daniel Leadbitter who was stretched off last week. The Pirates lined up in  3-5-2 formation with Lyttle and Lee Brown wing backs for the visitors.

Orient formation

Bristol Rovers Formation

In a scrappy opening period, it was the visitors who settled down the better with the high wing backs of Lyttle and Brown creating problems for the O’s. Hendon’s decision to play Cox and Pritchard wider was to prevent Rovers coming out with the ball. Orient were struggling to get going as Rovers were frustrating their hosts. Rovers looked dangerous on the break and nearly took the lead after 9 minutes. Following an Orient corner, visiting captain Chris Lines broke past Lloyd James, he drove forward and played a through ball to Ellis Harrison. Harrison cut back onto his favored right foot but his low shot was palmed away for a corner by Alex Ciask.

Easter was linking the play well for the visitors who sat fourth before kick off with three straight wins as they prevented Orient space. Rovers boss Clarke had seen that Orient like to pop up in pockets of space and receive the ball on the half turn but his side were squeezing the play creating mistakes.

Orient did grow into the game after 15 minutes with a period of good possession, trying to be patient to create opportunities. Moore, Pricthard and Clohessy were linking up well in midfield but were still finding it hard to create any openings. The O’s did have a faint penalty appeal when Paul McCallum appeared to have his shirt pulled but referee Darren Drysdale waved away appeals.

It was McCallum who was involved in the major talking point after 23 minutes when James Clarke apparently pushed the Orient forward over in the box. Drysdale pointed to the spot incensing the visiting players but Lloyd James stepped up and slotted home for his second of the season to put Orient ahead. The O’s had failed to create much going forward but needed second invitation to take the initiative in the contest. Rovers will feel harshly treated with the decision and if it was given against the Orient I would have been incensed myself.

Hendon’s team had more impetus after the opener but the game still remained tightly poised at 1-0. With the home side enjoying more possession, they were continuing with the patient build up with Moore and Simpson having more of an impact. Cox went close 5 minutes before the break after McCallum laid off to Pritchard who in turn played Cox in but the winger saw his shot saved by Chapman in the Rovers goal.

Rovers could have equalised before the break when Alex Ciask flapped at a Chris Lines’s corner but Mathieu Baudry blocked Tom Lockyer’s goal bound shot. However Orient who have been known in the opening games of the season for their high pressing struck seconds before the half time whistle. Pressure from McCallum and Pritchard saw Chapman clear to Lyttle in the right back position. The wing back was put under pressure from both Cox and Fraser Shaw; Cox nicked the ball and picked out Simpson with a diagonal ball. Simpson took the ball down, shaped onto his left then his right and calmly slotted home at the near post to give Orient a 2 goal cushion at the break.

Hendon was forced to make a change at the break with Matheiu Baudry picking up injury and replaced by Alan Dunne. Rovers boss Clarke changed his formation and personnel at the break with Jeffrey Monakana and Cristian Montano replacing Tyler Lyttle and Ollie Clarke. The Rovers boss reverted to a 4-4-2 system with Monakana and Montano operating on either wing.

Bristol Rovers 2nd Half formation

Despite the formation change from the visitors, it was the O’s who could have added a third quickly after the break. First Lloyd James picked out Simpson with a reverse ball over the Rovers defense, but the front man could not lift his shot over the head of Aaron Chapman. Simpson then tested Chapman from distance but his shot was again saved.

Pricthard was next to Chapman from distance but the Rovers keeper was more than a match for his effort. Rovers then pushed to see if they could get back in the game with Orient dropping to a 4-5-1 formation with Jay Simpson moving to a right wing position. It was the striker who brilliantly blocked Lee Brown as the left back looked set to strike on goal. Simpson who had netted the second, epitomized the ethos created from Hendon and his backroom staff with his unselfish running for the team to keep the lead in tact.

Ciask who looked shaky earlier on made two quick saves in succession with him palming away Jermaine Easter’s effort away before blocking Ellis Harrison’s effort. The O’s had weathered the Rovers storm but the away side really should have halved the deficit with 20 minutes left. Lee Brown inswinging free kick was glanced just past the far post by Tom Parkes. Any more on the header and it would have nestled into the bottom corner.

Clarke threw on Matty Taylor for Jermaine Easter but Rovers still could not grab a goal. Hendon took of man of the match Jay Simpson for Ollie Palmer and Blair Turgott replaced Bradley Pritchard. James Clarke should have compensated for his mistake for the penalty but he somehow volleyed over from a corner. Orient could have added a third but Blair Turgott failed to play in Ollie Palmer in the dying minutes.

The O’s registered their fifth win of the league season and their third clean sheet in three games at home. Ian Hendon spoke to leytonorient.com post match stating that “it was a good team performance, the victory was right for us, it was a tough game but full blooded”. Hendon’s team march on at the top of the table and Rovers did create problem sfor the hosts but the quality which his side possesses ultimately proved the difference.

The penalty decision was a key turning point in the game with Orient failing to create opportunities before the penalty. The decision was harsh and McCallum made the most of it but the referee in truth was terrible for both sides and at times unwilling to let the game flow. Once Orient began to string passes together they created openings and it appears that when one striker has a quiet afternoon the other one strikes.

This time it was Simpson who seems to be loving life in E10 currently, with a place in the starting line up and the composure to score at this level he is a real threat in every game. However it is not just the quality that Orient possess, the togetherness and work rate which Hendon urges is brilliant. Make no mistake the quality of Simpson’s play for his goal was excellent but it was only created from closing down by McCallum, Cox and Shaw.

The “Moore” I see Pritchard and Moore together, I think that they are really underrated players. Moore had is best game in an O’s shirt and before the season Lloyd James would have been the first name on the team sheet in the middle of midfield but at the moment on evidence James could be the one to be withdrawn or miss out. Although Moore and Pritchard may not have the ability for a defense splitting pass, their ability to win the ball back, work rate and energy makes up for it. The combinations created between them creates space for the likes of Cox, Simpson and McCallum to create chances.

Hendon’s side travel to Luton in midweek for the JPT first round with the O’s boss looking set to name a youthful side giving Kashket, Ling and Moncur some game time and experience. Despite five wins from five, Hendon appears to me to still find improvement in his side, Orient were not at full steam today and as said on twitter “God help the team play that Orient play when everybody clicks”.

Tougher tests will come and the real marker can be taken after Exeter, Cambridge and Northampton and Wycombe at home. But Orient look on the march and with Hendon at the helm it appears truly in great hands. #Inhendowetrust

Leyton Orient midfielder Sammy Moore knows that his teammates cannot be complacent tomorrow as Bristol Rovers visit Brisbane Road. The O’s continued their 100% record to their league season with a 3-2 victory over Newport last weekend. But Moore who spoke to leytonorient.com earlier today said “We know it is a good start but it’s just a good start, there is a long way to go and we have to make sure we repeat the last 4 games this Saturday”.

Orient were made to fight for their victory after being pegged back just before half time but Dean Cox popped up in the second half with the winner. Moore praised “Paul and Jay, Ollie, Blair and Coxy who have been on fire, all of them have been magnificent, subs have come on and changed games”.

The midfielder who joined from AFC Wimbledon in the summer has been an integral part to his side’s success and once again highlighted the ethos and togetherness within the club. “It is the best togetherness I’ve had since involved within football, we are a really tight knitted squad and taking it on the pitch. You see in training we have banter but work our socks off on the pitch”.

Ian Hendon stated after the Newport win to leytonorient.com that “Newport were more than worthy of a point so you have to look at our performance but to come away from home. We know there are going to be battles, we dug in and got the 3 points”. The character of his side will please the former Hammers coach who saw his side tested for the first time this term.

With a hectic start to the season, both O’s keepers Alex Ciask and Blair Turgott were happy with a week break between fixtures. Ciask who spoke to leytonorient.com knows his side need to play better tomorrow if they are to pick up another win; “after the first 10 minutes we didn’t play as well as we should, took our foot off the pedal and conceded sloppy goals. We need to play a lot better against Bristol Rovers as it wasn’t good enough today”

Turgott will have Hendon thinking about whether to start him ahead of tomorrow’s encounter with Rovers. Turgott scored and assisted after coming off the bench in his last two performances and after last week’s win insisted that “it is hard to change a winning team but for me trying to give the gaffer a problem when I get my opportunity, I want to play here not just sit on the bench”

Rovers arrive in E10 ahead of three consecutive wins which sees them sit 4th in the league on 9 points. Rovers, who were promoted in the summer through the play offs, have continued where they left off under manager Darrell Clarke. A 3-1 home win over Barnet last weekend saw Rovers move to 4th and they are in no mood to roll over ahead of tomorrow’s clash.

Clarke was happy his side picked up their third win in a week including 2 1-0 away wins; “there are lots of positives, 9 points and 2 away wins, some parts played good football but sometimes a bit sloppy but thought we thoroughly deserved the result”. Speaking to bristolrovers.com after the victory, he opened up about the change in formation at half time. “We dropped too deep and weren’t making right decisions on and off the ball. We had a heated discussion and managed to put it right. When we went 3-5-2 we looked more comfortable”

Rovers are relishing their trip to the Capital with midfielder Jake Gosling happy with his inclusion last weekend. Speaking to bristolrovers.com on tomorrow’s opposition he stated “they have had a strong start to the season but we don’t fear nobody , we definitely eager to play the best teams to see how we do, we will go down there fully confident that we can get a result”

Despite facing the league leaders, Stuart Sinclair knows that it is important to “prepare the same as every week, making sure we have the right information”. Speaking to bristolrovers.com today the midfielder added “Orient is a massive game for us, I know Orient are doing well, they are all good games, you prepare the same every week wherever they are in the table. Orient are strong, have a good budget and are looking to push.”

With both teams on winning runs, something may have to give tomorrow afternoon; Clarke has praised the impact that Ian Hendon and Andy Hessenthler have had since their arrival in the summer. Speaking today to bristolrovers.com, Clarke added “they have good players and have started well. Ian has gone in and turned it round, they went through managers last season but Ian and Andy have had a great start”

Team News

Ian Hendon has added Liverpool youth defender Joe Maguire to boost his ranks on a one month loan deal today after Shane Lowry finally departed Orient. Hendon was happy with his recruitment of the 19 year old and speaking to leytonorient.com earlier today the O’s boss stated “We have seen him on a few occasions and heard lots of good things. It is a good opportunity to sample League 2 football”.

The two concerns for Hendon will be Alan Dunne, who missed the trip to Newport last weekend and Dean Cox, who was taken off with a tight hamstring as a precautions. Both will be looking to be involved tomorrow.

Rovers’ only absentee remains Daniel Leadbitter who was stretched off last weekend in their victory over Barnet last week.

Head to Head – Leyton Orient 39, Draw 27, Bristol Rovers 44

Last Meeting – Leyton Orient 3-2 Bristol Rovers – 30/08/2011

• Orient have won the last 5 meetings in League and Cup
• The last 3 meetings at Brisbane Road were: 5-0 (2010), 4-1 (2011), 3-2(2011)
• Rovers last win at Orient came in 2009 in a 2-1 win

Rovers Statistics

• Unbeaten in 20 consecutive away games
• Last defeat came 6th September 2014 in a 2-0 defeat at Braintree
• Lost 3 of first 4 matches last season,
• Record in next 22 including 2 games this season – P21, W10, D11, L0
• 8 out of the 10 wins by a 1 goal margin
• 5 out of their last 6 away wins been by 1 goal
• Kept 7 clean sheets in last 9 away games, conceding only 3
• Kept 8 clean sheets in last 14 games 

Formations

Orient’s assistant manager Andy Hessenthaler and Sammy Moore stated to leytonorient.com “Let’s worry not worry about them but ourselves and what we do with and without the ball. If we turn up at our best, we think we have too much for them”

Hendon could be set to name the same starting 11 for the fifth league game in a row however with Hendon change systems last week when playing against a 3-5-2 formation. Hendon reverted from a 4-4-2 diamond to a conventional 4-4-2 system in the second half with two wingers. Hendon stated to leytonorient.com after the Newport victory “we were a bit concerned with their 3, wing backs getting out too easy, tried to stick someone in front of them Coxy left and Blair right. Felt supply was coming more from wide than middle”

Watch Out For

Rovers netted in the first 2 minutes against Barnet with Lee Brown netting for a well worked corner. Clarke spoke about how his hard work on the training ground paid off and he spoke after the Barnet match to bristolrovers.com about the week off and “we can do more on the training ground, keep working hard”. Watch out for a well worked set piece from the visitors.

Prediction – Leyton Orient 2-1 Bristol Rovers

Orient’s hardest game of the season, I envisage that Rovers will make a strong start looking to prevent Orient from playing. With Rovers known for playing attacking football and the ability to counter, I think that it could be the first time that Orient fall behind this season. Hendon will have to change his side once more and it will get the desired effect. Palmer to net the winner.

Dean Cox’s second half winner kept Orient the only 100% club left in the football league. It was far from plain sailing for the East London club who’s manager Ian Hendon  revealed post match that “Newport were full worth a point”. In a frantic opening period, Orient raced into a 2-0 lead with Paul McCallum and Jay Simpson netting their third goals of the season inside 7 minutes. Orient should have added more through Paul McCallum but the score remained 2-0.

The game then turned on its head when Scott Boden turned in Scott Barrow’s cross at the near post to halve the deficit before just a minute later County captain Mark Bryne fired home from 25 yards. Orient were shell shocked with the home side in the ascendancy but Hendon responded bringing on Ollie Palmer and Blair Turgott and within 5 minutes Orient grabbed the winner. The two subs combined with Turgott’s cross turned in at the near post by Dean Cox to keep Orient top of the tree.

County, who had only managed 1 point from 3 games prior to kick off, made 2 changes from their defeat to Hartlepool in midweek. Kevin Feeley came in for Kieran Parselle while Zak Ansah who joined on loan from Charlton in midweek made his debut ahead of Aaron Collins. Orient were able to name the same starting 11 for the fourth consecutive league match with Cox, McCallum and Jay Simpson continuing having been involved in 5 out of the 8 league goals scored.

Leyton Orient formation

Newport’s Formation

The O’s ,who went top on Tuesday after their 3-0 win over Stevenage, continued where they left off as they started the brighter. Butcher’s county lined up in a 3-5-3 system and looked to utilise the wing backs of Danny Holmes and Seth Nani Twumasi. However, in the opening stages this was causing problems as the O’s were exploiting the space left by the high wing backs. Sean Clohessy and Bradley Pricthard were linking up really well down the right.

After just 4 minutes it was the league leaders who edged in front, after good work down the right saw Jay Simpson played in. His cross missed McCallum in the center but Dean Cox retrieved the ball on left, turned and crossed for McCallum to head in off the underside of the bar for his third of the season.

Backed by over 500 travelling away fans, Orient pushed for a second and just 3 minutes later they doubled their advantage. Another free flowing move saw Clohessy feed Simpson on the edge of the box, the former Gunners man moved the ball onto his left foot and from outside the area unleashed a curling left foot shot into the top corner of Joe Day’s goal.

County were struggling to contain the East London side who were pressing them high looking to force mistakes. Hendon’s side were oozing confidence and with the high pressing almost grabbed a third. Dean Cox robbed Regan Poole in possession, he approached on goal but his shot was saved with McCallum failing to find his strike partner Simpson with the rebound.

After just 18 minutes the contest should have been over, Bradley Pritchard nicked the ball in midfield, pressing forward he found Cox in the right channel. Cox looked up and his fired cross found McCallum free at the far post but to the surprise of all the away fans, the front man headed over. With a 2 goal cushion, the O’s looked comfortable and saw McCallum go close once more, his header from a Cox corner bounced off the woodwork three times before going to safety.

County started to grow into the contest with Mark Byrne having a goal bound shot blocked by Mathieu Baudry but Orient still threatened on the break. Hendon, operating his diamond formation, allowed Danny Holmes and Seth Nani Twumasi more space down the wings. Kevin Feeley headed over from a corner before Scott Barrow gave Orient a warning sign with a run down the left. 4 minutes before the break, Orient didn’t heed the warning as Barrow crossed for Scott Boden who turned home at the near post to halve the deficit for the Exiles.

With Orient in disarray after the  first goal, Marky Byrne drew the Welsh side level just a minute later, after good play down the left Byrne received the ball in the middle of the park. He set his sights on goal, unleashing a 25 yard strike beyond Ciask to draw the scores level. The comeback was nearly complete before half time but Ciask turned over a Danny Holmes shot. Hendon’s side needed half time, the O’s fans looked in shock, dominating the game and in complete control then to collapse within a minute was disbelieving. “This is Orient was uttered in the stands” but this would be a real test of character for Orient.

Despite a change of formation to 4-2-3-1 from the away side, County continued where they left off before the break. Feeley forced Ciask into a save following a Byrne cross which found the center half at the back post. For Orient’s supremacy in the first half hour, the league leaders were finding it hard to contain County who were backed by a vocal crowd. With Orient second to the ball in midfield, Hendon reacted 9 minutes in to the second half bringing on Ollie Palmer and Blair Turgott for Lloyd James and Jay Simpson.

Start of second half formation – 4-2-3-1

4-4-2 after Subs in 54th minute

The change got the desired rewards after just 5 minutes, Palmer flicked on to McCallum who in turn found Turgott on the right wing. The former Hammers youngster crossed for Cox who had got across his marker to turn home at the near post to put Orient back in front.

Orient pushed for a killer fourth and looked more composed in the new formation, Turgott failed to meet a Cox pull back as County still remained firmly in the contest. Boden headed over for the hosts as they searched for a second equaliser. The Exiles replaced Ansah with Aaron Collins but it was Orient who threatened but Palmer volleyed over at the back post.

Cox who Hendon later revealed post match “that he felt his hamstring” was replaced by Scott Kashket as Orient looked to shut out the game. Butcher brought on his second loan signing with Josh Laurent replacing Scott Boden. County were beginning to have more and more joy down the right flank with  Fraser Shaw and Kashket struggling to deal with Danny Holmes. Palmer nearly wrapped up victory with a fourth but his shot was deflected for a corner.

County could sense an equaliser and kept pushing men forward but Scott Barrow’s run and shot crept past the post. Orient were holding on and substitute Aaron Collins should have made it 3-3, after Elito was found in the left channel he pulled back to Collins. He made space to shoot with his left foot but his shot went agonizingly wide of the far post. The O’s were trying to run the clock down but County had one more chance but Josh Laurent toe poked over in the dying seconds.

Orient battled out for 3 points in Wales but the ease that County drew level could be a worry for Hendon. The O’s looked in cruise control for the opening half an hour and should have wrapped the game up, they had chances and on another day could have been punished for not taking them.

Despite that, once more Hendon changed the game before it got away from them. The tactical switch to 4-4-2 bringing on Turgott and Palmer forced the third and decisive goal. A resolute win with Moore and Pritchard once again working their socks off which sees Orient go 2 points clear at the top. 3 formations in one game highlights that Hendon has the ability and knowledge to change a game to get the result.

Hendon revealed to leytonorient.com post match that “Newport were well worthy of a point” but his O’s side sit top of the tree ahead of a home visit of Bristol Rovers. The O’s created chances and the character which his side showed in the second half will please the former Hammers coach.

A tough assessment for Hendon’s side which they overcome in the end but only just. The quality of the squad was highlighted once more with the impact of Turgott and Palmer off the bench. However, today’s collapse at the end of the first half concerned the away fans but at the moment something feels different with this Orient side. It may have highlighted that Hendon needs to add to his squad before the window closes.

There is a week to rest and recuperate before a tough test against Bristol Rovers but with Orient sitting top of the table and 4 wins from 4 it is all good being an O’s fan. With Bechetti once more in attendance, including a visit to Newport’s train station delighted the away fans as the president took in what could have been a massive mistake last year. He appears different, learning from his mistakes but in true fashion as @darenreisman (Dazzing Dazza) would say only an Orient fan would say “we are only 11 points off the bottom”

But the inaugral words remain with Orient in the blood and the good times appear to be back, I mean where else would you want to be than on train back from Newport soaked at 5:30 on a Saturday afternoon. Well I know that currently #inhendowetrust

Leyton Orient midfielder Dean Cox is loving his football under new manager Ian Hendon, the diminutive winger spoke to Leytonorient.com after his side went top of the division after a 3-0 win over Stevenage. “I am really enjoying my football and so are all of the lads, you can see the work ethic that we have got, we look very fit and teams finding it hard to combat us”

It took Orient over an hour to break through a resolute Stevenage side but Cox insists that with “the players we have up front, we are always going to be a tough team to play against”. Three wins from three league matches has seen Orient start the season on the up after relegation last season and Cox has praised the impact that Hendon has had:

“He has got us well drilled, he has done very well, the lads get on with him. It’s all black and white, we know what we are doing and the jobs as players we have to go out there and do. We need to do what we have been doing every week and that will be the challenge now”

Hendon himself was delighted with the result on Tuesday but is keeping his feet fully on the ground “There is a long, long way to go, we are 3 games in of a 46 game season so feet are firmly on the ground. All of the lads are looking forward to Newport”. Speaking to leytonorient.com, the O’s boss was pleased with his side despite Stevenage making it difficult for them, “I said before we went out, what happens if the opposition get a goal and make it tough for you, then make them aware that it’s not always going to be plain sailing and it wasn’t tonight”

The game changed after Hendon introduced Blair Turgott in the second half to change the home sides formation which forced the opening goal. Hendon praised the former West Ham youngster’s impact “I have worked with Blair, he has got that in his locker, we brought him on to supply but ended up popping up with one”. Turgott’s first goal for Orient epistomised their spirit and togetherness which Hendon loves to see:

“When we score a goal, all the lads celebrate, that’s a bit of spirit that they have amongst them and love to see it. I hope it has come from the staff in how we treat them day to day. They are a good group, the subs are coming on in every game and putting a shift in and that’s what we want them to do”.

Cox who played two positions on Tuesday night against Stevenage insists that “competition for places is fierce and you have got to try and keep the shirt”. With Ollie Palmer, Blair Turgott and Alan Dunne all having an impact from the bench Cox knows that “it will be crucial, they are hungry and want to do well, it’s what you need from the bench”.

Orient travel to Wales to face Newport tomorrow and goalkeeping coach Lee Harrison stated earlier today to leytonorient.com that “we won’t underestimate them, we have had them watched, they are a young side, very energetic and we need to do what we have been doing”.

Harrison followed Hendon to the Orient in the summer and the former Orient stopper is enjoying his time at the O’s; “It’s been great, I have been here before, it was like coming home, I haven’t had to have a settling in period it has been too tough for me”. Harrison has seen only 1 goal conceded in the three league games and highlighted that “confidence is always high when you win games, we are finding it now you have to battle for an hour but we have players that are a level above. You’d home that comes through”.

Tomorrow’s opponents Newport have only picked up 1 point from a possible 9 in the league so far and boss Terry Butcher knows that his “side need to be more ruthless in both boxes”. Speaking to newport-county.com yesterday, he stated that “we have come a long way in a short period of time, we are looking to push up the table. We are a new team finding our feet in the league. We have set a standard in games but it needs to be higher attacking and defending”

It was a summer of change at Rodney Parade with the club looking to move over to fan ownership alongside Butcher’s appointment. The former England International moved to Wales after 5 seasons in Scotland and his first task was to rebuild his squad. With 18 departures from the club, Butcher worked well in bringing in 13 including names from non-league but has had limited luck with several injuries at the start of the season.

His young side lost 1-0 away at Hartlepool on Tuesday night and Butcher was disappointed that his side didn’t take anything from the game. Speaking after the match to newport-county.com, “we passed the ball well and created 1 or 2 reasonable half chances but the difference between the sides was they had a shot that hit the target we didn’t. We should have done more in the final third, that is the difference between getting something from game and not”

The average age of his side was 23.5 years including three of his starting 11, 18 or younger, Butcher knows that his side “need experience on the pitch, we have a lot to come back which will benefit us with calmer heads might have helped turned the screw”. The visit of Orient is only County’s second home fixture of the season and Butcher stated that “if you have good possession you have got to test them with it”.

Butcher added 21 year old forward Zak Ansah on loan from Charlton and Josh Laurent a 20 year old midfielder who are both available for tomorrow’s clash which helps boosts the ranks. The County manager is pleased with both arrivals “Josh is young and has legs to get around the pitch and gives us more numbers in the middle while Ansah is an attacking player, he has more experience. Proven at this level after being on loan at Plymouth last season”

Butcher is aware of threat that the league leaders pose “they are a good strong side, with some good players McCallum upfront with Simpson and Cox in behind them. They have goals throughout the side and will be confident. They are the league leaders but we need to take the next step and go in front in game, we are what we are and we will have a go at them”.

Team News

Newport have both Ansah and Josh Laurent available for tomorrow’s game while Matt Taylor, Kevin Feely, Andrew Hughes, Nathan Ralph, Alex Rodman and Lenell John-Lewis are all still missing for the Exiles.

Hendon could name an unchanged line up for the fourth consecutive league match however Alan Dunne is set to undergo a late fitness test ahead of the game.

Head to Head – Newport 17, Draw 13, Leyton Orient 17

Last Meeting – 01/03/1988 – Newport County 0-0 Leyton Orient

• First meeting between sides for 27 years
• Orient have only won 1 of the last 10 meetings
• Orient last won at Newport in a 2-1 win back in 1955

Prediction – Newport County 1-2 Leyton Orient

I think this could prove another hard game for the O’s, with County youthful side I think they will started brightly and could nick an early goal. Hendon will look to change his side and Turgott and Palmer will provide the impact in the second half to keep Orient’s winning run continuing.

Leyton Orient manager Ian Hendon insists his side’s “feet are fully on the ground” despite going top of League 2 last night. Speaking to Leytonorient.com after the victory Hendon stated “It is a 46 game season but we are delighted with the result”. Three wins out of three in the league puts Hendon’s side top on goal difference after their 3-0 victory last night. Hendon went head to head with his ex colleague Teddy Sheringham who both left West Ham in the summer to take up managerial roles.

However it was Hendon who came out on top but Stevenage did give Orient a scare in the first half with both Brett Williams and Diko Akinyemi striking the woodwork. Paul McCallum had a header cleared off the line but Sheringham would have be disappointed his side didn’t take the lead. Hendon brought on Blair Turgott in the second half and his introduction gave the home side the impetus to go on and win. Jay Simpson nodded the opener with 16 minutes to go before Turgott volleyed in a fine team move for the O’s. Ollie Palmer wrapped up victory in added time punishing a mistake from Dean Wells.

Both sides named unchanged sides from their weekend’s results with Hendon continuing with a 4-4-2 diamond while Sheringham adopted a 4-1-3-2 with captain Steven Schumacher playing just in front of the back 4.

Leyton Orient formation

Stevenage Staring Formation

Boro started the brightest with Williams and Akinyemi winning lots of aerial ball for the away side. Bradley Pritchard blazed over for Orient before a mistake at the back nearly saw them fall behind. Loose play in the midfield saw the ball flicked to Brett Williams, his turn and shot hit Alex Ciask’s post and bounced off the keeper for a corner. Both sides were trying to play football going forward but mistakes were at a premium with possession changing hands quickly.

Mysteriously for many Orient fans, Sheringham and his side appeared to give Clohessy the freedom of Leyton down the right flank but unlike his usual standards his crossing failed to live up to expectations. It was down the right where Cox screwed a shot wide after 17 minutes, Clohessy’s cross was cleared to Pritchard on the edge of the box. His first time touch put Cox in but his first time shot was scuffed wide.

Orient were finding Clohessy with ease down the right and he was the out ball for the hosts every time they were in possession. Stevenage’s aerial prowess continued and they looked very dangerous from set pieces. With Orient playing a diamond in midfield, Stevenage at times were winning too much second ball preventing Orient from going forward. Charlie Lee was pushed on to Lloyd James preventing the Orient man from picking his passes.

The home side could have led after 28 minutes and on second viewing it appeared they should have. Once again a move down the right saw a beautiful ball from Clohessy to the back post where McCallum rose highest to head past Chris Day but his goal bound header was cleared. The former West Ham striker was convinced he had notched his third of the campaign but his celebrations were cut short by referee  Chris Sarginson. On second viewing it appeared the ball had indeed crossed the line.

Stevenage still posed a threat and goal scorer from the weekend, Akinyemi, was very lively in attack and it was the 18 year old who was whiskers away from opening the scoring. Brett Williams flicked on to the youngster, he turned Baudry inside out and his fierce shot bounced off the underside of the bar and away to safety. This seemed to kick Orient into gear which saw Cox and Clohessy combine 2 minutes later but Jay Simpson’s shot was brilliantly blocked by Wells for a corner.

There were chances for both sides but Stevenage would feel unlucky not to have led at the break. The second half continued in the same vein as the first, Sammy Moore blazed over after Fraser Shaw had broke well down the left. Stevenage were still pressing forward and Williams saw his left foot shot brilliantly saved by Ciask in the Orient goal.

Hendon changed tactics with an hour gone, Blair Turgott replaced Lloyd James with Orient reverting to a traditional 4-4-2 with Turgott and Cox on each wing and Pricthard partnering Moore in central midfield. The substitute didn’t take long to make an impact as his right wing cross was headed over by McCallum.

Orient’s change at 60 minutes

Boro change to 4-4-2

With the change of system from Hendon, Sheringham reacted almost immediately matching his former colleagues formation from a 4-1-3-2 to a 4-4-2 as Tom Conlon replaced Charlie Lee. Conlon had a glorious chance 3 minutes after his introduction but screwed his shot wide of the mark.

Orient were having more joy with genuine width in attack, Jay Simpson was then thwarted by the woodwork. Clohessy crossed to the frontman who did brilliantly to create space onto his left foot but his shot cannoned off the woodwork.  But with 16 minutes remaining Simpson made the breakthrough. Cox who had moved to left, picked the ball up crossing to Simpson who glanced home inside the far post to put the hosts ahead. Relief was for all to see at Brisbane Road with home side restricted to minimal openings.

Hendon introduced Palmer and Dunne for McCallum and Cox as Orient looked to protect their advantage. Despite the change, Orient doubled their advantage through Turgott with 5 minutes left and you find it hard to find a better team goal in League 2 this season. Following a Boro corner, Palmer robbed a Stevenage player in the left channel, he picked out Sammy Moore who had broke forward. Moore looked and turned inside picking out Clohessy on the right edge of the penalty area. His cushioned first time ball was directed delightfully into the path of the onrushing Turgott who volleyed home.

A fine team goal highlighting the togetherness of the squad currently. Palmer wrapped up victory in added time as he chased down a ball played forward. Dean Wells under pressure from Palmer headed poorly back to Chris Day leaving Palmer to nip in and slot home Orient’s third. A harsh reflection on the full 90 minutes with Stevenage playing their part in the game.

On another day Orient may have been behind at the break as Stevenage had chances to make the breakthrough. Sheringham looked down beat post match and rightfully so but Hendon’s managerial nouse shined through once more for the hosts. His change of formation had the desired effect with Turgott having a real impact on proceedings after his introduction. Cox once again assisted Simpson’s opener but even on a frustrating evening for the winger, he still popped up with an assist.

That 2nd goal can be watched over and over again, the pass from Moore, the ball from Clohessy and the finish from Turgott, all superb. I myself struggle to have seen a better team goal at Brisbane Road (I wasn’t at the Gillingham game 13/14 season 5-1 win).

Essam continues to thrive in defense despite Baudry not looking completely match fit last night. Moore and Pritchard are still impressing with Moore relishing more of a role in the 4-4-2 system after James’s withdrawal. It was great to see Turgott and Palmer have the impact that they have been showing in their performances with the goals doing the world of good for their confidence.

It was definitely a tough test for Orient with Hendon revealing to leytonorient.com that “Stevenage were the best team we have faced this season, it was a tough tough game, in the second half we played a little better and we are delighted”. The key move for O’s fans was that Hendon saw the tactical change that needed to happen and was brave enough to make the change which had the desired effect.

Newport away awaits on Saturday, the 11:45 from Paddington is waiting, let’s see if another country means another win for Ian Hendon’s Red White Army….

Leyton Orient midfielder Lloyd James is delighted to be back playing after an injury disrupted season last year. The former Southampton trainee suffered a broken leg in September 2014 and missed the majority of last season. Speaking to Leytonorient.com after his sides win at Dagenham on Saturday he stated “I’m just delighted to be back out their, after the injury last year, I feel like I am slowly getting back to myself”.

James who netted Orient’s second from the spot added “Obviously with a pre season under my belt, it is great to be back out there, 3 points was the main thing”. With disappointment in the cup in midweek after conceding 2 late goals away at MK Dons, Orient bounced back with a Derby Day win at Dagenham. James stated that “it was a good performance, thought the first half we dominated the game, it is always important to get the first goal. We got another quickly and thought we were comfortable and performed well on the day”.

Hendon echoed James’s thoughts post match “we have started the season well, it’s a good performance and another win, we look forward to Tuesday night now, it is a quick turnaround and we will try and perform the same again”. Speaking to leytonorient.com, Hendon highlighted the team’s togetherness “it has been like that since Day 1, credit to them and the staff. We keep on at them all day every day, they are taking it on board and results are coming”

Orient face Stevenage tomorrow night as Hendon faces Teddy Sheringham for the first time since they parted West Ham in the summer. “We shared the same office last season and I am looking forward to the battle”. Hendon side was backed by over 1400 travelling fans at the weekend and will hoping for them to return to Brisbane Road tomorrow night.

“It was like a home match, the O’s fans outsung Dagenham fans all game”

Stevenage picked up a 2-2 draw away at Newport on Saturday with Mark Hughes netted an injury time equaliser and Sheringham was “delighted to get it back to 2-2″. Speaking to stevenagefc.com post match he was disappointed “to go down 2-1, momentum changes very quickly in games but we are delighted to get a point”

Despite picking up a draw at the weekend, Sheringham is still looking for his first win at Stevenage manager after defeat against Notts County and Ipswich in his first two games. “For 3 games on the spin, I can’t fault the character, commitment, endeavour or work rate from the squad of players”. 

Boro’s late hero, Mark Hughes stated the importance of “getting off the mark, we have points on the board and it is something to build on for Tuesday. All the lads are looking forward to it. We all will put the effort and commitment in and with a bit more a win is just around the corner”

Hughes spoke to stevenagefc.com about the threat that Orient will possess tomorrow, “they have momentum, they are one of the favorites to go up they have good players and they will do alright”. Sheringham will make his first trip to Brisbane Road for the game but stated that “it is always going to be a big game for us, it is a lovely place to go and play football”.

Both sides will be hoping for victory tomorrow but Hendon knows that Sheringham side “will play football, they are a good footballing side, we have had them watched and will work in training on that”. One main concern for Hendon will be the concentration levels of his players towards the end of matches, after conceding their third goal in 2 games in the final few minutes it could provide a problem for the former West Ham coach.

“Course we like clean sheets, defenders like clean sheets aswell as the keeper, we pride ourselves in setting up not to concede goals and it was the only disappointing thing, one of the lads held his hands up, we learn and move on”

Hendon will hoping that midfielder Dean Cox continues his fine form at the start of the season, with an assist and stunning free kick on Saturday, Cox is relishing the freedom he is given at the top of the midfield diamond. Speaking to London24.com today Hendon stated that Cox “epitomised our performance and togetherness at the moment”. Supporters have seen the changes within the dressing room and group which has been instilled by Hendon and James commented that “the winning spirit is good to have back in the dressing room, we are obviously delighted, there is nothing better than a winning feeling”

Team News

Orient’s only injury concern is captain Mathieu Baudry who limped off with a twisted ankle on Saturday. Alan Dunne could be set for his first league start if Mathieu Baudry fails a fitness tomorrow. Hendon will look to name the same midfield and strikers for the third league game in a row. James stated that “we have to look after ourselves, we can’t get greedy, we need to rest up be ready to go tomorrow night. Do the work on the training ground and get the 3 points”

Stevenage look set to continue with Brett Williams and Mark Hughes who returned to their starting line up on Saturday but Jamie McCombe remains a doubt having missed the trip to Newport. Dipo Akinyemi looks set to continue after netting his first professional goal on Saturday.

Head to Head – 8 Meetings – Leyton Orient 4, Stevenage 3, Draw 1

Last Meeting – 18/02/2014 – Leyton Orient 2-0 Stevenage

• Stevenage have won, lost and drawn in the 3 League meetings at Brisbane Road
• Orient have won 4 of the last 6 meetings, not conceding a goal in those matches

Prediction – Leyton Orient 2-0 Stevenage

Leyton Orient manager Ian Hendon praised his players after they continued their winning start to their league campaign. The O’s were 3-1 winners away at Dagenham & Redbridge yesterday and Hendon, speaking to Orientplayer said “credit to the players and the staff – they are working hard and the results are coming”

Orient took the lead when Paul McCallum nodded a Dean Cox through ball beyond Mark Cousins for his second in as many games before Lloyd James converted from the spot after Clevid Dikamona handled in the box. It could have been more for the O’s but Dean Cox wrapped up victory with a stunning free kick after 56. Dagenham did grab a consolation right on the 90 minute mark when Cureton latched onto a through ball to lob Alex Ciask.

Both sides were looking to bounce back from defeat in midweek in the League Cup with Dagenham going down 4-1 at Charlton while Orient narrowly lost at MK Dons2-1. Dagenham made 4 changes from side that were brushed aside by the Addicks with Jamie Cureton, Christian Doidge, Ashley Hemmings and Josh Passley all being recalled to the starting 11. The O’s also made 4 changes to their side and welcomed back Fraser Shaw, Lloyd James, Jay Simpson and Paul McCallum. It was the same 11 that won against Barnet last weekend.

Dagenham Formation

Leyton Orient formation

In a scrappy start neither side was able to gain the initiative going forward but it was the home side who looked more threatening in the opening exchanges. Playing the midfield diamond once more, allowed Dagenham’s full back space down the wings which almost led to the first goal.  Josh Passley advanced down the right crossing into the box, Alex Ciask looked far from convincing punching to Ashley Hemmings on the edge of the box. Hemmings shot fell to Jamie Cureton who could only knock the ball towards Kane Ferdinand at the back post but the former Peterborough man was not alert enough to stick the ball away.

The away side began to get into their rhythm of passing with Dean Cox turning and shooting at Cousins on the edge of the box. Jamie Cureton continued to be a nuisance in attack for Daggers, playing on the shoulder of the last man but Orient were dealing well. The O’s did open the scoring after 19 minutes, neat play down the right saw Cox feed Pritchard, his cross bounced out of the box to Cox, he flicked the ball over his head to McCallum who nodded past the on-rushing Cousins. Dagenham defenders turned to the assistant referee who kept his flagged down.

After the opener, Orient were fully in their flow with neat play all over the pitch, McCallum nearly doubled the lead just a minute later. A deep Clohessy cross from the right found McCallum who rose highest at the back post but saw his header bounce back off the woodwork. Dagenham were finding it hard to deal with Orient’s high press in the middle of the park with Cox, Moore and Pritchard all closing down well and forcing mistakes.

Bradley Pritchard was continuing his fine early season form and nearly grabbed a goal for his efforts. High pressing in the middle saw him rob Joe Widdowson of possession. Pritchard advanced towards goal but his fierce shot was saved while McCallum could only put the rebound over. Orient were fully in the ascendancy and needed a second goal to ease the game out.

The second did arrive just before the half hour, a Cox corner was handled in the box by Clevid Dikamona who was under pressure for O’s captain Mathieu Baudry. Lloyd James stepped up and slotted home from the spot to put Orient 2-0 up. Hendon’s side were in cruise control and backed by a strong 1400 away fans looked to put the game to bed with Simpson and McCallum going close.

The O’s continued the second half as they finished the first with Cox, McCallum and Simpson bright and alert in the final third. Cox nearly grabbed a goal his performance deserved but his left foot shot crept agonizingly past the post. Clohessy was providing a real outlet down the right for Orient and his crosses were causing Dagenham all kinds of problems. McCallum should have grabbed his second but glanced Clohessy cross wide of the far post.

Cox did grab a third for Orient and what a goal it was. After McCallum had been fouled 25 yards out, Cox stepped up and curled a stunning free kick beyond Mark Cousins into the top corner. The away side seemed to stand off after the third and Ciask had to make two great saves to preserve the clean sheet. First he saved well high to his right from a rising Christian Doidge effort before tipping a Doidge’s effort on to the bar.

“The Clean sheet is important now” echoed between the three of us in the away end yesterday, seeing games out will be an important aspect this season especially away from home. Orient heeded the warning, pushing for a fourth with McCallum almost putting a tap in on a plate for Simpson but Widdowson just got back to clear. The right side was creating clear in roads to get forward with McCallum, Simpson and Cox combining but the latter scuffed his shot at Cousins.

Then the game entered a frantic 2 minutes, somehow Orient did not grab a fourth with ever member of the 1456 away support unsure of how. After a sustained period of possession Cox, Palmer and Pritchard went close. Simpson had a shot cleared off the line and a header bounce back off of the bar but amazingly the score remained 3-0.

Dagenham searched for a consolation goal towards the end and much to Hendon’s disappointment they grabbed it. A long ball forward by Clevid Dikamona found Jamie Cureton who volleyed first time over Ciask to make the score 3-1.

A convincing win for Leyton Orient who continue to grow as a team, it appears that Hendon and his staff have created a team togetherness with no individuals. Key to fans and management, every out field play celebrated all 3 goals highlighting the unity within the group. Players seem to be wanting to play for each other and Hendon.

Hendon revealed post match that Mathieu Baudry had suffered a twisted ankle and was unsure if he would be available on Tuesday for the visit of Stevenage. The O’s are beating what is in front of them at the moment and will have much harder tests this season but as Hendon said in pre season “always nice to get into a winning habit”.

Orient welcome Stevenage on Tuesday with Hendon going head to head with Teddy Sheringham who he shared an office with last season. It will be another test for Hendon’s side but in McCallum, Cox, Simpson and Pritchard, they have players in fine form looking for goals. Hendon has instilled a high pressing approach to his side with all player working very hard for the team. Cox and Pritchard two of the players who got through a lot of work yesterday and Pricthard “What a difference a year makes? A central position and he relishes his role”

Leyton Orient defender Alan Dunne has urged the O’s fans to play a big role at Dagenham tomorrow afternoon. The O’s make the short trip to Victoria Road tomorrow after seeing their side exit the League Cup on Tuesday. Dunne, who was a summer signing from Millwall, spoke to Leytonorient.com yesterday and praised the fans in the first two games of the season. 

“It’s not too far for fans to come and it is a derby game, they were great at MK and made lots of noise. We need them throughout the season both home and away because they are part of a successful team”.

Dunne made to the switch to East London late on in the summer after his 15 years at Millwall came to an end but the defender is looking forward to the rest of the season. “It was really pleasing to get my first start, I am getting there fitness wise and training hard every day. I want to get in the team and feel that I put a good shift in”. 

He added “the league is our priority and always will be. It would have been nice to get a result but it is all about Saturday. We will learn from defeat”

The O’s suffered late heartbreak on Tuesday night as they conceded two goals in the final 3 minutes to lose at Milton Keynes. O’s manager Ian Hendon was happy with his side’s performance, speaking to Orientplayer post match “I am making no excuses and I don’t have to, to be fair we have come to a Championship club and performed really well and probably should have won the game. The boys will be disappointed but the performance was superb”.

The performance at MK was far from the 6-1 defeat Orient suffered in the league back in April and highlights the progress the side has made with Hendon at the helm. In the first two matches of the season, Hendon has tinkered with his formations to get the best from his side. On Tuesday Hendon rotated his squad to play a 4-4-1-1 and it was almost the perfect away performance barring the last 5 minutes.

The team mixed some young lads with some experience pro’s with Hendon happy with how they performed, “they are going to take a while to settle down, it is a new environment for Blair especially where he has come from, Kashket is a young lad and it is a big learning curve from the young ones”

Despite the defeat Orient are raring to go at Dagenham looking for their second win of the season with both Dunne and Hendon aware of what threat Dagenham possess:

Hendon “Really excited, by the sounds of things it is going to be a full house at Dagenham. There is a rivalry there, I know Wayne and Warren and we are really looking forward to the game and if we keep performing like the first 2 games we will be fine.

Dunne “I know Wayne Burnett and I know what he is about. He will have them right up for it. It will be a difficult game but if we go there and show the same quality that we did in midweek, I have no doubt that we can go and beat Dagenham”

Burnett started his footballing career at the Orient back in 1989 and will be looking to get one over on his old side. It hasn’t been a good start to the season of the Daggers with an 3-0 opening day defeat at Portsmouth followed up by a 4-1 League cup defeat at Charlton on Tuesday night.

Despite defeat Daggers coach Darren Currie is positive going into the local derby tomorrow. Speaking to Daggersplayer post Charlton he stated “there were spells in the first half where we put together good spells and passages looking threatening but obviously contributed to the downfall at the back”.

7 goals conceded in two matches will concern the management staff at Dagenham but Currie added “you never get to high with victory or too low with defeat, there were positive to take from today but 7 goals in 3 days, I would say we contributed to at least 5 of them”. I

Daggers midfielder Ashley Chambers assisted Christian Doidge’s consolation goal on Tuesday night and echoed Currie’s words when he spoke to Daggersplayer yesterday. “Obviously the way the manager like to play it is very attacking but we need to start being a bit uglier, keep more clean sheets and obviously still scoring. We are trying to work harder as a team and be a lot more solid”.

• Dagenham kept 15 clean sheets last season, where 10 of them achieved at home
• Dagenham conceded 26 goals at home last season
• Dagenham won 9 games at home last season but only 1 was by a 1 goal margin. (6 wins were by 2 goals)

Chambers is pushing for a start after coming off the bench and impressing on Tuesday, “I hope to start, I was very disappointed not to start on Saturday, once the decision was made, just have to make myself undroppable and haven’t done myself any harm” The former Cambridge man is excited by the prospect of the game tomorrow afternoon, “Orient were in the league above last year went we played them in the JPT, it was a great occassion, there will be a lot of fans and should be a great atmosphere. It should be a great game, you are always wanting to play a big team and Orient are that”

Team News

Ian Hendon looks set to have a fully fit squad ahead of the trip to Victoria Road tomorrow, the O’s manager made 4 changes at” Milton Keynes on Tuesday but Lloyd James, Fraser Shaw and Jay Simpson look set to return. Paul McCallum didn’t travel on Tuesday but Hendon stated post match that “he picked up a knock but hope if ready for Saturday”

Hendon could return to his 4-4-2 diamond shape despite the problems faced in the first half in their win against Barnet last weekend but Mathieu Baudry is confident of picking up three points tomorrow. He spoke to leytonorient.com today:

“We just have to try and carry on what we have been doing and put the same work, discipline and quality into this game as we have done for the past two. We have a lot of quality in the team and hopefully we can show that at the weekend”

Wayne Burnett made 5 changes to his side that traveled to Charlton in midweek but Jamie Cureton and Ashley Hemmings are pushing for recalls. Christian Doidge will be pushing for a start after his goal on Tuesday while Cureton will be looking to strike against one of many former clubs.

• Cureton netted 19 league goals last season – 8  of which were at home

Head to Head – Dagenham 5, Leyton Orient 4, Draw 2

Last meeting – 07/10/14 JPT – Dagenham 0-2 Leyton Orient 

• The sides have only met twice in the league in the 2010/2011 where Dagenham won at home (2-0) and a 0-0 at Leyton Orient
• Dagenham have not won in 90 minutes in the last 5 meetings between the sides
• Last victory for Dagenham was a 2-0 win in the League in 2010
• Orient have only won once away to Dagenham in a memorable 5-4 victory in the FA Cup back in 1992

Prediction – Dagenham 1-3 Leyton Orient

It will be a tightly contested game with Orient’s quality prevailing in the end. Cureton to score for Dagenham, it seems inevitable having only hit 1 goal in 17 appearance for the O’s

Sources – Leytonorient.com and daggers.co.uk