In a commanding display, Preston Manor Royals secured a resounding 6-2 victory over Ansty during a friendly match at Ansty Sports Club on a warm August evening. The Royals showcased their attacking prowess, dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities, while Ansty struggled to contain their relentless offensive pressure throughout the contest.
The match kicked off with an electric pace, and it wasn’t long before the Royals made their mark on the game. Valery Jingwa emerged as the star of the night, finding the net multiple times and displaying an impressive blend of skill and determination. His first goal came after an exquisite cross from Rodrigo Catalan - Rojas, which Jingwa met with a powerful header from close range, sending the ball crashing into the net. This early breakthrough set the tone for what was to follow.
Marlon Perrin also joined the scoring spree, netting a goal shortly after Jingwa. Following a slick sequence of play, Gillan Williams provided a precise short pass inside the box, allowing Perrin to tap in from close range. With their confidence soaring, the Royals continued to launch wave after wave of attacks against the Ansty defence.
As the first half progressed, Jingwa struck again, converting a well-crafted team move from outside the box with a left-footed shot that left the Ansty goalkeeper with no chance. His second goal highlighted his ability to find space and exploit defensive lapses, making it a challenging evening for Ansty's backline.
Despite the scoreline, Ansty demonstrated resilience and managed to pull one back shortly after the break through a close-range finish, energising their supporters. However, Preston Manor Royals quickly responded. A stunning long-range effort from Stiven Lopes sailed past the opposing goalkeeper, exemplifying the Royals' attacking depth and creativity. This marked Lopes’ introduction into the match, as he had come on as a substitute just before scoring, demonstrating the effective squad depth and tactical flexibility that the Royals possess.
Kevin Wokabi concluded the scoring for the Royals, adding to Ansty's woes with another well-placed shot from inside the area. His effort encapsulated the Royals' dominance in the final third, as they consistently found themselves in advantageous positions, exploiting gaps in the Ansty defence.
Ansty, struggling to regain their footing, did manage a late consolation with a direct free-kick that found its way into the net, but by then, the game was well beyond their reach. This momentary excitement was overshadowed by the Royals’ clinical finishing and overall better performance.
Throughout the match, Ryan Thompson was assured in goal for Preston Manor Royals, making several key saves, including a couple of fine catches that showcased his command of the penalty area. His contributions helped maintain the Royals' lead and added to their sense of security in defence.
The refereeing performance, however, raised eyebrows among players and supporters alike, with several contentious decisions throughout the match, leading to a yellow card for Jake Burton due to dissent. The referee's control of the game seemed to falter at times, impacting the flow of play and drawing frustrations from both sides.
As the final whistle blew, Preston Manor Royals emerged deserved victors in this high-scoring friendly, a testament to their attacking prowess and team cohesion. They will take great confidence from this display as they look ahead to their competitive fixtures, while Ansty will undoubtedly need to regroup and refine their strategies to bounce back from such a heavy defeat. The match served as a vivid reminder of the Royals’ potential and attacking capabilities, with players like Jingwa and Lopes leading the charge as key figures moving forward.
