Stroud Men’s 1st XI, wearing their new away strip sponsored by Omega Selection Services, began the new season in fine style, despite fielding several 2nd XI players away against Witney. They were slightly under pressure before the start as their new coach was on hand to instil the understanding of the new formation and to see first-hand what he has to work with for the coming season.
His presence was invaluable and Stroud looked pretty organised early on. It was not long before they took the lead when a smart move down the right saw Tim Norman latch onto a cross with his reverse stick. Stroud definitely had more than an edge and should really have extended their lead, but a lapse of concentration let Witney in to equalise. Rob Winson, however, scored a slick deflected goal as a firm cross came in and that left Stroud 2:1 up at the interval.
A useful tactical half-time talk meant Stroud come out buzzing again. The midfield quad of Andy Hines, Steve Shipp, Reg Gealer and Joe Skinner worked hard and, when they upped the pace, put Witney under much pressure. The defence, with Mike Gibbons sweeping, looked sound, except for another small lapse which let Witney in to score a second goal. They could have pulled another one back but for a fine aerial save from goalkeeper Dave Cruickshank.
Several other opportunities fell Stroud’s way before Rob Winson scored his second. Andy Hines then drew the ball wide of the keeper before flicking the ball home and he put the result beyond doubt when he converted a short corner played back to him on the left.
This was a good start to the season and coach, Dave Gardner, felt encouraged for the training sessions to come. All players worked hard and this must continue throughout the season if promotion is to beckon.