Men's 3rd XI Vs Newport 1st XI (f)

Telford and Wrekin Men’s 3rd XI welcomed Newport 1’s to St George’s for their first preseason game. After gaining promotion last season, the 3’s wanted to start their new season strongly against Newport, who had just been promoted into the league below our 3rd’s. The squad was staying mostly the same this year, with Chris Nightingale continuing as captain. With neither Dom or Bradley available to play in goal, Nathan Capes was called upon, with Rich Thompson and Roman Randell both returning from injuries picked up last season. Jack Hodnett also returned from his red card at the end of the season. 

The Newport side that faced Telford had some familiar faces but Telford still knew this could be an interesting game. Both sides created chances early on with Telford winning the first PC of the match however nothing came of it. Telford's younger players pushed Newport's defence but their ‘keeper kept the ball out of the Newport goal. The first round of subs (managed once again by Cassie) introduced Tommy Lauder, who produced the spark Telford needed to get ahead bundling the ball home after a brilliant passing move involving most of the team.

Before half time the game became more scrappy, with Raj receiving a green card for putting his body into a tackle against a Newport player. However Newport managed to level the game soon before half time.

The second half was closely contested with both teams creating great chances but neither team could find that finishing touch. Telford’s best chance of the half came when a good period of possession meant the team had progressed well into Newports half. Glynn found Ben S, who's first shot at goal was saved, and as Newport stopped playing and appealed to the umpire, the ball came to Ben again in the air with a shot that hit an unaware Newport player in the foot. However it was Newport who got the winning goal when a lack in concentration from the defence meant Newport could almost walk the ball into the goal. Even with a late yellow card for Tommy inviting Newport to press Telford, some fine saves from Nathan kept the final score to 2-1. 

Next week Telford 3's face Old Wulfs 1's in their next preseason fixture at St. Georges.

DOTD - Rich Thompson for being too honest!