Two goals from Ken Charlery KO'd Billericay's Essex Senior Cup hopes on a windswept evening at New Lodge.

A driving rain and fierce wind made it difficult for both sides to produce flowing football.

But the former Football League star overcame the dour conditions to conjure two goals out of nothing.

The opening strike came in first-half stoppage time after Daggers midfielder Danny Hill cannoned a long-range shot off the crossbar. The ball fell kindly for Charlery, who sidestepped the defender to fire past Gavin King.

The goal, coming when it did, was a savage blow to a Billericay side who had never looked under serious pressure from their lofty opponents.

Town fought back bravely in the second period, but their hopes were dashed when Charlery added a second on 56 minutes.

The wind caught hold of a Dagenham corner - the ball had been difficult to judge in the wind throughout - and looked to be out of any immediate danger as it flew beyond the area.

However, Charlery retrieved the ball and hit what looked like a hopeful lob back into the area that carried over King and into the net.

Holders Dagenham now go on to play Purfleet in the semi-final.

Published Wednesday, February 20, 2002