The Chesh’s pre-season got up and running on Friday against a familiar foe in the form of Woodstreet FC.

It was an experimental line-up, with manager Rob Midghall giving a run out to more more than a dozen players who are on trial with the club, with the game being played in 3x 30min periods to allow for the lineup to be continually changed.

The first period saw the visitors take an early 1-0 lead. This put the Chesh out of sorts as they tried to force passes in the search for a quick equaliser. Possession was easliy given away and chances restricted as balls into the last third were more in hope than design.

The break saw no fewer than 9 changes, with the effect being almost immediate. The Chesh kept possession well and forced their opponents into having to do ‘doggie’ style runs in an attempt to chase the ball down. The more patient build-up saw better quality balls going forward, as chances began to develop. Debutant Mike Swindell capitalised on the improved quality by slotting away two goals, leaving the home team in the lead heading into the final third.

A further spate of changes and tired legs meant the final third felt very much like a friendly. The Chesh continued to play so good football and create chances, but a momentary loss of concentration saw Woodstreet snatch an equaliser.

Today was more about giving the lads a chance to show what they can do, and put into practice all that we have been working on in training.

I felt we tried too hard in the first third. Our passing was too wasteful and we were forcing our build-up play. The second and third quarters were a much better reflection of the talent on show. We played some good stuff and as fitness and match sharpness continues to grow over the coming week, there will inevitably be further improvement.

There were some fantastic performances by the new guys, and I will certainly be looking to sit down with the chairman next week to get them tied down for the new season. It will be an exciting season seeing them added to the already fantastic array of talent at the club.

Robert Midghall – First Team Manager

Images of the game can be found on the clubs Instagram page, with highlights being on our YouTube channel #cheshtv 

The next game is against Aintree Villa on Wednesday, 6:30pm kick-off at Cheshire Lines Social Club.