Sporting Bengal on the ball in a recent game against Bethnal Green. Pic: Gavin Ellis/TGS

Essex Senior League side prepare for crucial clash with Clapton

Sporting Bengal United manager Mamun Chowdhury insists his men can bounce back from the disappointment of their 4-3 defeat at Takeley when they entertain fellow Essex Senior League strugglers Clapton on Saturday.

Bengal fell to a heartbreaking stoppage-time goal after fighting all the way at high-flying Takeley.

But their manager believes they can come out on top on Saturday when they take on another side desperate for points.

Chowdhury said: “Our defeat at Takeley was hard to take.

“Our keeper was brilliant throughout the game but made a mistake in stoppage time.

“But we’re very optimistic looking ahead to the big local derby against Clapton.

“It’s a very important game as we look to move away from the bottom of the table.”

Clapton suffered a 3-1 home defeat to Enfield 1893 on Saturday in their first game since winning 3-2 at Bethnal Green United a month ago.

They sit at the bottom of the table but have only been beaten in four of their last eight league games, so they are showing some fight.

Bengal are set to welcome back two players in the form of goalkeeper Jason Hartless – who has been unavailable for a lengthy period of time – and defender Aaron Hutchings, who has recovered from nose surgery while suspended.