AFC Rushden & Diamonds Under 18 started their pre season campaign with a convincing 4-0 victory over Wellingborough Town FC.
With the senior match between the two clubs falling foul of the weather overnight it was left to the under 18’s to provide the football entertainment on the 3G surface at Raunds Manor School
About 75 fans from both sides braved the elements to watch was an attractive game on the all-weather surface, which really lived up to its name. The Diamonds lads dominated possession and took a deserved lead after 16 minutes when Luke Skirrow converted a penalty after the Doughboys keeper had dived across his opponent even though the ball was going away from goal. The Doughboys then had their two best chances of the game which they failed to convert, and were made to pay on the stroke of half-time, when a flowing Diamonds move saw Mason Thomas fire home.
The second half saw the Diamonds midfield continuing to dominate, and even the introduction of a number of substitutes did not affect them, and Mason Thomas was able to get his second after 69 minutes, before substitute Omar Giovani completed the scoring with two minutes left.
U18 manager Mark Walsh must have been pleased with the all-around performance from his new side, and will be looking forward to their next fixture, which is also due to be held on a 3G pitch at St Neots as part of the double header next Saturday (21st – KO 4pm)
