Brentwood Town secured a hard fought Boxing Day victory, winning 1-0 away to Basildon United.

The Blues started in a lively manner, with Jesse Olukolu causing all sorts of problems on the right wing for the Blues.

A Lyle Della-Verde corner fell to Danny Ogunleye at the near post, but he dinked the ball just wide.

Brentwood Town continued to knock on the door of the Basildon United defence, with Della-Verde hitting the woodwork from close range following a cross from Olukolu.

Teammate Mekhi McKenzie also saw an effort of his own turned onto the post by the goalkeeper shortly after. Some good footwork by the Blues’ number 9 saw him find himself in a good position, but he was unable to finish.

In the second half, Brentwood continued pushing for the opening goal, with Della-Verde curling an effort from the edge of the box just wide.

A change of shape and personnel by Keith Rowland ensured Brentwood got the goal they deserved. Substitute Benas Vaivada picked out Danny Ogunleye with a low cross from the left, with Ogunleye on hand to score his 23rd of the season from six yards out.

Basildon United pushed for an equaliser, but risked leaving the back door open. Ogunleye broke quickly and rounded Max Spence in the Basildon net, but his effort was remarkably cleared off the line after an impressive recovery from the Basildon’s George Scales.

Further chances fell to Danny Ogunleye and Benas Vaivada during the closing stages of the match, but the Blues had to settle for a goal to nil victory.

Keith Rowland’s side are back at home on Saturday 28th January, with Redbridge the visitors to The Brentwood Centre Arena.

By Adam Farmer