Essex Premier Division leaders Haringey Borough consolidated top spot after thrashing Southend Manor 6-2 on Saturday.

It was a comfortable win in the end but it was not until Boro’s fourth goal that the outcome began to look assured as Manor responded to every setback.

The opening goal came after just four minutes when Anthony McDonald nodded Boro ahead as he followed up his shot which crashed back off the bar. Aaron Baldwin then pounced when a cross-shot struck a post and fell into his path. McDonald scored again in the 24th minute but Manor were within a whisker of an equaliser moments into the second half.

Sheer persistence gave Rakim Richards the opportunity to increase Haringey’s lead four minutes after the restart. But Abiola Tanimowo broke away to net a fine second for Manor a few minutes later.

The hosts finally siezed control late on and added further goals from debutant Saleem Masri and an own goal from Joseph O’Cearuill.

Boro will hope to continue this goalscoring form tomorrow (Saturday) when they visit mid-table Takeley.