Droylsden beaten in final home pre-season match

Since their comeback, Droylsden has experienced a mixed bag of results, as they search for their first victory – at the time of writing.

Since their first game, which they lost on penalties after a 1-1 draw with Stretford Paddock, they then drew 2-2 with Stockport Georgians. A good result considering they were 2-0 down at one point.

And their final home pre-season match saw the Bloods lose 1-0 to Heaton Stannington, a team from a higher division. However, despite the results, Droylsden remains optimistic about continuous improvement.

Against Heaton, Droylsden struggled to create clear-cut opportunities, especially in the first half. And the North East club showed their quality, seeing more of the ball and creating several chances, which were impressively matched by Droylsden’s trialist goalkeeper Connor Leach.

Droylsden improved after halftime but was still unable to put their opponents in any real danger.

The lack of clinical edge allowed Heaton to capitalise on a turnover from a Droylsden throw-in, resulting in a breakaway goal by Konner Lamb. Leach got a hand to the effort but was unable to prevent the game's only goal.

Despite the result, manager Dave Pace remained positive about his team’s performances, acknowledging the nature of pre-season and being encouraged by his team’s performances in the second half.

He even implemented a three-at-the-back system for this game to counter the opposition's fullbacks from pressing on. Again, he recognised the need for improvement in this system and in his team’s nature in front of goal.

At the time of writing, Droylsden has yet to play its final pre-season game away at AFC Crewe. The Bloods will be hoping to secure their first victory before the season begins at home to Abbey Hulton United on July 29th.