In a commanding display, Preston Manor Royals triumphed over Hangleton First with a resounding 4-0 victory during their friendly encounter at Portslade Sport Centre. The Royals showcased their attacking prowess, asserting themselves from the outset and dominating the game with fluid movement and tactical precision, leaving their opponents struggling to respond.
The opening goal arrived early in the first half, with Jaegan Roberts finding the net with a deft tap-in after a swift build-up play, demonstrating the Royals’ keen eye for goal within the box. The move highlighted the team's cohesive attacking style that had evidently been sharpened during their pre-season preparations. Roberts' effort was followed by an equally impressive strike from Danny Grafton, who scored with a well-timed shot from just outside the box after receiving a long, precise pass from Valery Jingwa that sliced through the Hangleton defence.
As the match progressed, Rodrigo Catalan - Rojas added to the scoreline with a clinical finish, capitalising on a corner taken by Grafton. The Royals’ set-piece execution was another highlight, emphasising their versatility and ability to adapt their play according to the situation at hand. Whether it was through open play or set-pieces, Preston's attacking flares were a constant source of threat for Hangleton.
In the dying moments of the match, Marlon Perrin capped off the scoring with a left-footed effort that sealed the victory. Following a well-worked passage of play, Perrin showed great composure to slot the ball home, showcasing the strength of depth in the Royals’ squad as players rotated in and out throughout the match.
The Royals adopted a 4-3-2-1 formation that provided them with a strong midfield presence while allowing their wingers to exploit the flanks effectively. The defensive unit, marshalled by Gillan Williams and supported ably by Adrian Bajka, demonstrated resilience and composure, successfully limiting Hangleton's scoring opportunities. Although the visitors managed a few forays into the Royals' half, they found themselves unable to breach a well-organised Preston backline.
Substitutions throughout the match allowed for fresh legs and tactical adjustments, with Kevin Wokabi making an early entrance to replace the influential Roberts. The changing of personnel did little to disrupt the flow of the game for the Royals, as they maintained their rhythm and continued to apply pressure on the Hangleton defence.
Referee performance throughout the game was solid, contributing to the smooth running of the match and ensuring that the contest remained competitive. The officiating allowed for a free-flowing game, permitting both teams to express themselves while maintaining fairness throughout the encounter.
This emphatic victory not only serves as an excellent confidence booster for Preston Manor Royals as they gear up for the upcoming season but also highlights the potential within their ranks. With standout performances across the pitch, including a particularly noteworthy display from Sam Copeland, the Royals will be looking to carry this momentum forward as they aim for success in future competitions.
