Hackney Wick FC produced a stunning second-half performance to brush aside promotion rivals Rayleigh Town with a commanding 5-2 victory. However, the final scoreline doesn’t reflect the full story of the match.

Rayleigh Town dominated the first half, showing more hunger and intensity, and their persistence paid off in the 32nd minute when they took a deserved lead. Hackney struggled to find their rhythm but got a crucial equalizer on the stroke of halftime as Leo Pola’s cross-shot found the net, with Issa Sidibie seemingly getting the final touch.

The second half began with another scare for Hackney when Rayleigh’s winger Leo missed a sitter from just a yard out. That miss proved costly as Hackney Wick stepped up a gear and took control. A corner found the head of top scorer Issa Sidibie, putting Hackney in front.

From there, the floodgates opened. Substitute Seb Mohammed made an instant impact, slotting home after a Pola shot was parried. It soon became the "Seb Show" as he mesmerized the defense with his footwork before adding a second. He then completed his hat trick in style, heading in a beautiful team goal to seal an emphatic win.

This crucial victory boosts Hackney’s goal difference and keeps them firmly in the title chase, still hot on the heels of leaders Harlow Town, who also won. Next up: Enfield Borough.

Final Score: Hackney Wick FC 5 - 2 Rayleigh Town

Scorers:

Issa Sidibie ⚽⚽
Seb Mohammed ⚽⚽⚽