Eaton Socon 2, Eynesbury Rovers 4

21st July 2017 :: Friendly Matches

Eynesbury Rovers beat a gallant Eaton at the MGS this evening in what was a reasonably good game. Both squads have strengthened over the summer and this was a good run out for both squads ahead of their respective league seasons. However Eaton could not have got off to a worse start when a ball in from Woodend was dealt with poorly by the Eaton defence and the ball was stabbed pass Wale in the Eaton goal.. one down after 1 minute. Eaton though steadied themselves and played themselves into the game but failed to test the Rovers keeper, and to be fair Eaton had one shot in the first half when Vale shot from 30 yards. Rovers then doubled their lead when again poor decision making allowed Smith to shot from 20 yards, Wale did his best to keep it out but only managed to push the ball into the goal. Two down at half time and Eaton really didn't do themselves justice and the second half didn't start any better when Gentle made it 3-0 on 55 minutes. Eaton made a few chances and changed their shape and within minutes a hopeful ball was not dealt with by the Rovers defence and Rhys Thorpe got to the ball first only to be brought down by the keeper.. Parratt stepped up to score from the spot. Eaton seemed to have a spell and started to push Rovers back and when Gooch went past Hickling the Rovers defender made a rash tackle and the referee again pointed to the spot.. again Parratt stepped up to make it 3-2. Eaton had a chance to equalise when Gooch again did well down the right but his cross eluded Thorpe and Parratt put his shot into the side netting. Eaton kept pushing but Rovers put the game out of Eaton's reach when a right old melee led to Rovers scoring and making the game safe.

But it was a good night which I am sure the 125 who watched thoroughly enjoyed. A big thank you to Mark Ducket for bring such a strong squad and we would like to wish Rovers well for the season to come.