Our 1st preseason game went well and there were a lot of positives taken.
Although the opposition were a new team a lot of their players were familiar to us and we knew they would give us a decent test.
We started very well, dominating possession and pressing them high up the pitch. Our 1st goal finally came courtesy of new signing Mr Thompson who finished very well after getting played in by Mr Aga. We continued to cause them problems and really should have had been another few goals up by the time they got their equalizer, a ball crossed in from the right and the impressive Mr Srinaun rose to unfortunately glance the ball into his own net to make it 1-1.
Half time came and some changes were made, words exchanged and liquid taken on as the Sun really did have his hat on burning down from the sky.
The 2nd half started well and before long we were ahead again when Mr Thompson turned provider for Mr Stock to finish neatly. Their 2nd equalizer again could have been avoided but the goal against the run of play was taken well.
Again we pressed and knocked the ball around with impressive intent creating around a dozen chances to score, many of which fluffed by MoM Mr Stock who could have had a double Hat trick if he was more clinical.
Our 3rd and most impressive goal (in my opinion) came via some excellent interchanging passes down the right before it was played out to newly promoted reserve player Mr Matthews who drilled a delightful cross to the back post were fellow newbie Mr Ramon met it with a diving header giving the GK no chance.
After that we really should have changed Tac a bit and tried to contain them and hit them on the break but as it was our 1st preseason game I was more concerned about the performance, fitness levels and players getting on the ball as much as possible. With 2 minutes remaining they got their undeserved 3rd equaliser.
Final thoughts:
After trying for years to get Mr Green and Mr Srinaun to play together for me at CB it finally happened and even though 3 goals were conceded they both looked good together and will surly get better and better as a partnership the more they play with each other and learn each other’s game.
Mr Addinall was as usual solid as a rock a and right wingers nightmare at LB, A position where he has played before in what was one of our most successful seasons.
It was good to have Mr Evans back in the team and his versatility and ability to comfortably play anywhere across the back line will be vital this season.
The two players chosen to shield the back four did a very good job there with captain Mr Farrally staying more central, giving protection the our CB's and always making himself available for teammates around him. This allowed Mr Sharp to do what he does best and get stuck in, turning the ball over and cutting out danger in wider areas.
The 3 lads playing behind the striker were a delight to watch at times with some smooth passing and good movement. 5'a'side seems to be having a positive effect on Mr Doyle who's quick feet and vision seemed like the Doyle of old. He found space very well and drove at the back line with the ball at his feet a few times which is something I always encourage him to do. Mr Aga playing in a more advanced role than usual and wearing the number 10 shirt for the 1st time was superb and unlucky not to get a few more goals and assists. His attempt at the hand of god goal was appalling though lol. MoM Mr Stock just never ever seems to give the ball away and I hope other players can learn from him, great display and really should have finished with more than 1 goal.
Leading the line and doing a fine job not only getting on the end of things but linking up extremely well was Mr Thompson. Fully deserved his goal and assist and he will add real genuine quality to our title challenge this season.
The 3 Subs did very well also, Mr Matthews did a good job at RB and I was very impressed with his energy levels and desire to get up and down the flank. He Battled well, linked up well and provided a great cross for our 3rd goal. A goal that was taken really well by Mr Ramon who did a good job on the left flank but unfortunately rolled his ankle and have to come off prematurely, I hope he recovers quickly as I’m eager to see more of him. Mr Goodchild also did a good job and was a real handful for their players, I had to double check there wasn’t 2 of him of the pitch at times because he really does put himself about.
Good Job, onwards and upwards!!!
