Pre-season Friendly
Saturday 6th August 2016
Report and pics: Stuart Tree (full set of photos here)
Corinthian-Casuals came from behind twice to win by three goals to two over their Ryman Premier neighbours Kingstonian in the penultimate pre-season friendly before the season starts next week.
Three second half goals, courtesy of Man-of-the-Match Josh Uzun, James Cottee and Josh Gallagher gave James Bracken's side the victory over Tommy Williams' strong K's line-up.
In stifling heat, the first half never really took off and Warren Morgan had to be removed from play after falling ill through heat exhaustion. Although Casuals created a few chances through Shaun Okojie and Jamie Byatt, it was Kingstonian who took the lead via a well taken header.
In the second half, Casuals struck back early through neat play seeing Uzun finishing well.
Kingstonian regained the lead through Shelton Gooden before James Cottee placed his 15 yard shot into K's keeper Rob Tolfrey's left hand corner. Josh Gallagher completed the victory in fine style and Casuals finished the game the stronger of the two teams.
Bracken commented on the win after the match.
“We're pleased to get the win. First half, we weren't at our best by any means but we kept in the game. We had three chances to their clear cut one so it was an even half which I wasn't too dissapointed with.
“The weather didn't help today in term of the intensity that you want them to show. When you have one of the lads come off from being sick on the pitch because it's so hot, it tells you how difficult it was out there.
“We got better as the game progressed and ultimately, we have to be happy with the overall performance and the victory.
“Crystal Palace on Tuesday night will be a very good test. I believe it's their full under-21 side that's coming along. They want a game together before their season starts as they've not had that so far seeing as they've featured in XI matches. The pitch here is fantastic which will suit not only them but it'll suit us too. I expect a good night, hopefully full of entertainment for everyone.
I won't put too much emphasis on the result; you can't gauge too much from playing a strong Under 21 side from a Premier League club but I am sure it'll be a good game of football where we'll try and play exciting football and be an enjoyable occasion for everyone who comes and watches.
“We start the season next week with Whyteleafe and I've been looking at their results and teamsheets. They've had a couple leave and a few come in. But I'm never too concerned about what other teams are doing as we'll concentrate on our own game. We'll make sure we're doing things right and then as the season progresses, we'll look at how others are shaping up and address anything from there.”
Casuals face a Crystal Palace XI side at King George's Arena on Tuesday night.