STOTFOLD 2 HARLOW TOWN 1 Pre-season Friendly 7-08-07

STOTFOLD 2, HARLOW TOWN 1
Pre-season friendly 07/08/07

Harlow continued their build up to their Ryman Premier season with a visit to Stotfold and their former manager Ian Alinson.
With many first team players left back at Barrows Farm training this was an opportunity for manager Ryan Kirby to give some new players a good run out. Dean Williams was in fine form running at the Stotfold defence and as early as the 9th minute his cross caused panic in the box and brought about a corner which was cleared at the 3rd attempt.
The play swung from end to end with no clear chances until a strong run down the left by Tom McGowan and a 1-2 with Dean Williams forced another corner. Another great run, this time down the right by Louis Bristow was followed by a pinpoint cross, which Dean Williams’ scissor kick just failed to connect with.
In the 30th minute a through ball by McGowan gave Williams another shot on goal this time saved by the feet of the keeper.
In the 40th minute Kirby introduced his first four substitutes in Daryl Doolan, Shaun Glidden and Xaniel Doku.
At the start of the second half Lewis Baker came on for McGowan on the left.
In the 50th minute a cross from the Stotfold left brought about a goal mouth scramble and Alinson turned it in from close range.
From then on the game got quite scrappy as players were changed at regular intervals on both sides. Stotfold adapted to their changes better than Harlow during this period and came more into the game.
This brought about a run and chip by Donnolly over the advancing Dumoulin to give Stotfold a second goal.
Home keeper Gillham was also in fine form saving from Baker and Williams.
In the 90th minute Dean Williams finally got his reward for his strong runs up front when he converted a run through the defence to slot the ball home.
Plusses for Harlow were the debut of Andy Julius in defence and another fine performance by both Glidden brothers. At the back Beckett Hollenbach again proved he is a quality defender.Harlow Tn: M Dumoulin, L Bristow, T McGowan, B Hollenbach, K Warren, A Julius, M Glidden, A Wallace, D Williams, G Taylor, R Presdedge. Subs used: S Glidden, L Baker, X Doku, D Doolan, M Williams.