the npl

Weekend News - 8/8/21

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Weekend News - 8/8/21

Paul Phillips acknowledged the closeness of the scoreline in Matlock’s victory in their final pre season test at Ossett United on Saturday afternoon.

“We found a way to win” he said after the 2-1 win which saw Craig Carney and Liam Hughes net in response to Tabish Hussain’s opener for the hosts.

“We had a few missing for various reasons so we tried some different things and in the circumstances we did okay despite conceding a poor goal.”

The Gladiators only had three substitutes with Ross Hannah. Jonathan Wafula and Callum Chippendale all out and with no trialists included in his squad.

One of those substitutes was a surprise as Craig King has returned to the Gladiators after a short pre season spell with Frickley Athletic.

“Craig contacted us and asked if he could come back, we’d told him he’s welcome back if the opportunity arose so we’re delighted to have him back with us, like everyone else he’ll have to fight for his place” said Phillips.

“It’s going to be a busy week, we’re looking to get one or two in” he added as Matlock will have two training sessions ahead of next weekend’s league opener at Ashton United.

The Matlock boss is hoping the loan signing of a striker which stalled through the player being taken ill could be completed in the next few days.

Ian Richardson