Stroud Men's 1st XI 6 Witney 3 STROUD Men's 1st XI, hit Witney for six in a friendly victory.

Both teams started brightly but it was Witney who settled quicker and following a strong but fruitless Stroud attack, they took the lead. Witney extended their lead.

However, Dave Cruickshank made one blinding save during this period to deny Witney another goal.

The return of Liam Tunney to the heart of Stroud's midfield proved invaluable. Andy Hines, Andy Gealer and Steve Shipp were able to work well around him and their persistence eventually paid off.

Five minutes before the interval a defensive error led to a Stroud goal. Tim Norman pounced and, following a slick one-two with Andy Gealer, popped the ball over the keeper.

On the stroke off half time Stroud were awarded a penalty corner. From a rehearsed move, Andy Hines finely flicked shot could only be parried by the keeper and Norman forced the rebound over the line.

After the break Alan Edwards scored a lovely short corner goal from another rehearsed move.

Tunney showed great vision to put Norman through to complete his hat-trick.

Stroud's superiority really began to show and a nice passing move led to Andy Hines clinically putting the result beyond doubt.

A slight lapse in concentration led to a consolation goal for Witney but Steve Shipp showed great skill to tuck away a shot from a narrow angle on the right to put the final seal on the match.

Stroud's defence looked much stronger as the match progressed, captain Rob Fynn minding Rob Sharman and Joe Skinner.

With coach Mike Gibbons and Dan Clifford rolling on and off, Stroud's start to the season was certainly impressive.

They face Cheltenham 3rds next weekend. Frys Ladies 0 Painswick Ladies 7

PAINSWICK where in emphatic form at Frys.

Becca Morse set the ball rolling with the first goal of the season followed by her mother Maggie Morse who scored as a result of Kara Henley's excellent short corner delivery.

Frys put up a determined fight however some young players were adjusting to the diversity and speed of the match.

Painswick's excellent trio formations continued to outwit Frys defence and continually created opportunities to score.

Nikki Keating, Sharon Gilson, Emma Watkins and Anita Wright were solid in midfield to provide further goals for M Morse, Henley and a spectacular dive at goal by Karen Davis. Outstanding teamwork and a positive attitude by all players undoubtedly enabled Painswick to control the game, allowing their keeper Michelle Morse to enjoy a restful first game.

Player of the match Becca Morse.

Anyone wishing to join Painswick Ladies or Painswick Mixed can attend our training sessions at Wycliffe Astro Wednesdays 8pm or call Nicky on 01453 763604 for information. All levels welcome.