HEALTHY COMPETITION PLEASES MU IN DRAW AT CROYDON

“A good game of football,” was Mu Maan’s summary at the end of last night’s 2-2 draw with Step 6 side Croydon FC in our penultimate pre-season fixture.

The game, played at Whyteleafe’s Church Road, began poorly for Casuals, who let Croydon in for a sloppy opening goal before giving away a soft penalty to allow the hosts to take a 2-0 lead at the break.

But there were already clear signs of improvement by the time the referee blew for half-time as Arsenii Protsyshyn hit the crossbar with a fierce drive and Andre Coker saw his well-struck effort turned over by the Croydon keeper.

The second half was controlled by Casuals, though. Coker got his first goal in our colours shortly after the break, before his replacement Rafael Barbosa equalised late on with a spectacular overhead kick.

“We had a lot of possession first half,” the gaffer reflected. “I wasn't happy with the goals – and another penalty conceded.

“But we rectified that and I think we could have scored maybe two or three in the first half. But I think our final pass, our final shot let us down.

“In the second half, to be honest with you, it was all us, and at times the football was amazing to watch. No disrespect, it was attack versus defence and I just think our execution in the second half was much better. Our decision making was much better. Onwards and upwards.”

The squad is taking shape with one more pre-season game to come this Saturday, at home to Leatherhead, and Mu views the competition for places as something that will strengthen us in the campaign ahead.

“Before the game, I asked the boys to look around them, because there's some very good players in there – experienced players in there. And I think we're going in the right direction. The squad is shaping up, but there's always room for improvement, although I'm very happy at the minute. Of course, I’m not happy conceding two goals, but overall I’m pleased.”

As Coker impresses up front with his tidy link-up play and sharpness in the box, while Barbosa brings tenacity and flair when selected to lead the line, it feels like the gaffer’s options up front are particularly strong right now, and that’s just how he likes it.

“That's a good headache to have,” he says. “Listen, Andre Coker is very well known in non-league. He's a proper player… and so is Rafa. It's healthy competition and that’s brilliant.

“We’ve got one more pre-season game, then the real business. I’m looking forward to Leatherhead. It will be another tough game, and then, just like that, the season is on you!”