Roffey Robins return to action in entertaining draw with Rudgwick

The game was an opportunity for both teams to make use of their squads, with changes being made every 15 minutes, as both managers sought to get some minutes into the legs of all of their players.

Rudgwick started on the front foot, putting Atletico under a period of sustained pressure with Jack Dann, Tim Clifford and Will Anderson defending stoutly. Rudgwick took the lead through a penalty and quickly doubled their advantage following some intelligent midfield play.

Following some changes, Atletico came into the game with Aaron Woodhams scoring two goals. His first was a powerful strike as he latched onto a loose ball to score with his first touch and the second was a powerful right footed shot from the southpaw. Atletico could have had a third goal, although a Romario Moratalla effort was ruled out for a narrow offside.

The second half was a tight affair, with no further goals added. There were opportunities for both sides and goalkeeper Theo Botevyle made a number of splendid saves, including a wonderful last gasp effort to claim a ball that appeared to be creeping over the line. Luca Harris, Josh Davidson and Henry Dinsdale were strong in midfield, with Josh Gibson, Lucas Byrne and Joshua Bellamy working forward with endeavour. Daniel Gardiner was unfortunate with a couple of chances where he got into the right position, but was unable to convert. Fin Ledingham and Dan Klamm provided some solidity in the back line to nullify the Rudgwick attacks.

Manager Ricardo Moratalla said: “It was great to get back out on the football field and give everyone a run out. There is still some rust from the lockdown we need to work on but there was some positive play from the team and I am looking forward to the season ahead of us.”