

Enfield Town Outscore Hornchurch in Thrilling Friendly
Enfield Town defeated Hornchurch 4‑2 in a high‑scoring International Club Friendly at the Queen Elizabeth II Stadium. The 29 July 2026 fixture gave both Isthmian League Premier Division sides a chance to sharpen their attacking play ahead of the new campaign. Enfield’s superior finishing proved the difference as they raced to a 3‑0 lead before Hornchurch mounted a brief comeback.
Match Overview
The game was played at a frenetic pace from the start. Enfield struck twice in the opening 15 minutes, stunning the visitors. A third goal before half‑time put the hosts in control. Hornchurch roared back with two goals early in the second half, setting up a tense finish, but Enfield sealed the win with a late fourth. The match featured end‑to‑end action, plenty of goal‑mouth incidents, and a lively crowd.
Key Moments
- 4th minute – Enfield lead: A quick break down the right saw winger Sam Mvemba cross for striker Marcus Walcott, who volleyed home from six yards.
- 12th minute – Second goal: A defensive error gifted the ball to Enfield's Jake Cass, who calmly slotted past the goalkeeper.
- 39th minute – Third goal: A corner was headed in by centre‑back Lewis Taaffe. 3‑0 at the break.
- 55th minute – Hornchurch pull one back: Substitute Liam Nash scored with a low shot from the edge of the box.
- 67th minute – Hornchurch make it 3‑2: A free‑kick was headed in by defender Ryan Scott, giving the visitors hope.
- 84th minute – Enfield seal it: A counter‑attack ended with Joe Payne rounding the keeper and scoring the fourth.
Standout Performers
Enfield’s Marcus Walcott was a handful all evening, scoring once and assisting twice. For Hornchurch, Liam Nash provided a spark off the bench with his goal and constant movement. Both goalkeepers had busy nights, with Enfield’s Nathan McDonald making several crucial stops in the second half.
Pre-Season Implications
Enfield Town manager Gavin Macpherson will be pleased with his side’s attacking fluidity, though the defensive lapses in the second half will need addressing. Hornchurch showed character to fight back but will be concerned about conceding four goals. Both teams have a few more friendlies lined up before the league season kicks off.