The Colls got their preseason off to a great start, beating Rossington Main by three goals to two.
This was the first game at The Regional Electrical Services Ltd Stadium with supporters, since last September! Much has changed since then a new squad, new management team and changes off the field too.
The rainfall meant the pitch had a bit of extra zip in the surface as the visitors got us underway, with the Colls attacking the Skinner Lane end.
For the first game of preseason the tempo was extremely high, both sides flying into tackles and trying to dominate in possession. The first real chance of merit fell to Ponte, with Jack Lazenby’s free kick denied in fine style by a great save.
Not too long after the deadlock was broken. Rossington felt aggrieved to have been flagged offside, but Ponte reacted fastest and broke down the right. The ball was fired into the box and Eli Hey flicked in from close range.
Rossington weren’t behind for too long. A soft penalty was awarded for an apparent foul by Ben Gordon. The resulting spot kick sent Musselwhite the wrong way.
Jack Vann then had a great chance to regain the lead for the hosts but he managed to fire over from close range. But it was only moments before Eli Hey pounced in the box from another corner, to make it 2-1 to The Colls.
An exciting, full blooded half came to an end. Rouse’s man looking exciting going forward, but especially dangerous from set pieces.
Colls started the second half the way they ended the first. Half time subs Kane Reece and Scott Smith were involved, Reece pounced on the loose ball and laid it off to Ben Gordon who’s cross was inch perfect for Smith to nip in to finish with aplomb.
The second half was interrupted by frequent subs, with very limited clear cut chances. Rossington had the ball in the net, but the linesman’s flag was raised.
The visitors were then awarded a late penalty after a trip in the area. Musselwhite got down well to save the spot kick, but the rebound was tapped.
Rossington pushed to grab an equaliser and a little bit of late handbags broke out, but the crowd were on the whole treated to an entertaining game.