A typically opportunist strike by Tony Cottee in the first half couldn't stop the Boys of 86 going down to a 2-1 defeat at Clacton last night (April 15).

A large crowd, estimated at 1500, turned out at the Rush Green Bowl to see the heroes from West Ham's most successful league team (and guests) turn back the clock for charity. The start had to be delayed to allow all the supporters to gain admission for a fixture that boosted the fund for Ellie Perryman, the three-year-old who is undergoing treatment for bio-chemical disorder and is hoping to travel to Hungary for specialist help.

Although Phil Parkes and Alan Devonshire were confined to the dugout in a dual manager/coach role, and Alvin Martin was ruled out by a hamstring injury, the visitors still fielded a very strong line-up.

Billy Bonds, 57, had people checking his birth certificate again with another amazing performance at the back alongside Tony Gale. George Parris and Geoff Pike operated down the left flank, with Steve Potts and the ever-competitive Mark Ward on the opposite wing.

With Neil Orr in his trademark 'holding role' and Alan Dickens probing further forward, the side had a very familiar look to it, especially with Cottee and Frank McAvennie combined up front.

Second half subs included Bobby Barnes, Greg Campbell and Perry Fenwick of Eastenders.