Andover Town4–5○Hungerford Town Swifts

If ever there was a game that emphasised the old adage of football being a game of two halves then this was it ! Andover Town entered this trial game with the intention of looking at all 20 players to help understand the progress of each player for both the senior side but also, the development squads within the academy. Facing a Hungerford side who had previously been beaten by Whitchurch and their first team, Hungerford Town, in recent weeks, the behind-closed-door game proved highly beneficial albeit the final result was disappointing given the hat happened before it.

A number of new players lined up to start the game. Ben Rodwell in goal, Morgan Browing and Harry Barkaway at centre back, Michael Donovan in centre midfield and Josh Hewson up front. Ryan Helmkay started on the bench alongside a raft of younger players. A very bright start saw Andover largely dominate with Adam Pattison looking dangerous on the right and linking well with David Jerrard on regular occasions. Against the run of play, Hungerford scored first. A free kick from the edge of the box went under the jumping wall to put the visitors 1-0 up. Despite the error, Andover continued to make openings and it was David Jerrard who hooked in to equalise. Not long after, Ben Emans, looking full of running, finished from close range to put Andover in the lead.

Half time - Andover Town 2-1 Hungerford Town Swifts

A couple of changes saw some fluency lost in Andover’s play after the break to begin with but quick goals from Matt Devereaux and Josh Hewson put Andover 4-1. This was a cue for a large number of substitutions which saw plenty of youngsters get game time and an opportunity to gain experience in senior football. However, the changes disrupted the flow of the game and a number of errors were punished by a Hungerford side on the front foot. Their competitive streak proved a learning curve for those getting their first taste of senior football. Goals in quick succession turned the game from 4-1 to 4-5.

Whilst the result was disappointing the performance for the first 55 minutes was encouraging and, although disheartened, the youth players will gain much from the challenges they faced up against more experienced and combative players in the final half an hour. With the trial game complete, the management side will have a much better understanding of which players will link with the senior aide moving forward and who will gain greatly from the academy set up.

The first team move on to their first friendly of the season against an Eastleigh Development squad on Thursday at the first game at the Portway stadium for five months. Sadly, without spectators.