The mens 1s closed out pre-season with an educational win at home to long-time rivals Bluharts. The performance was not doused with Royston's typical flair, perhaps due to the late summer heatwave, but through MOTM Garratt opening his account for the season, Royston were able to take a win into next week's curtain raiser.
Royston are looking to experiment with a new pressing philosophy this season and this game provided an opportune platform to begin. Though the press isn't functioning at an optimal level, it bore plenty of fruit for much of the game as time after time Royston were able to steal possession high up the pitch. It was through this pressure that Royston were able to take an early lead with just 5 minutes on the clock. A high press in the attacking right quadrant meant that Royston were able to turn the ball over in an advanced area, which ultimately led to a much improved Garratt springing onto a loose ball before rifling home into the bottom corner from 12 yards.
Royston proceeded to create many good goal scoring opportunities but were ultimately unable to extend their lead. Notably, Hall had a flicked shot tipped out of the top corner by a diving goalkeeper before squandering a fine Brumby pull-back.
Where the press is not yet fully capable, a number of holes crept into Royston's shape throughout and in periods Bluharts were able to play through with ease. If it were not for some solid play at the back from keeper Gourd and defender's Jackson and Hughes, the afternoon could have turned ugly for Royston.
There was much to take away from the game but again the hallmarks for success were all present. Royston now look ahead to the next weekend where the season gets underway at home against West Herts. COYC.