Today preparations for season 2011/12 began in ernest with our first friendly of the seasn when we entertained Ryman Premier League neighbours Aveley. Despite a 0-1 reverse our team can hold their heads up as they made their higher level opponents work for their win.
One pleasing aspect was the large number of Barking players returning from last season - in fact of the 17 players used, 14 played for us last season, two previously played for us as recently as season 2009/10 and there was just one new face, that belonged to Frankie Williams who palyed for Basildon last season and scored the only goal win the Bees beat us back in April.
The game itself swung from end to end and Chas Liddiard had a early chance from a George Tubey pass, but his effort went the wrong side of the post. On 19 Aveley took the lead when a excellent Sam Dennis tackle rebounded to an overlapping opponent and his cross was met with a diving header to make it 1-0 to the visitors. The visitors continued to make the best chances - hitting our cross bar and Chris Clark making a fine low save just before the break.
Barking made six changes at the start of the second period and only a good save from the Aveley keeper stopped Ben Turner from equalising early on. Barking continued to push for an leveller with Joe Turner, Liddiard, Jake King and George Tubey all prominent in the attacking third. However, late on only a fine save from a free kick by Dan Fowler in the Barking goal kept the score at 1-0.
Afterwards first team coach Rob O'Brien said:- "The lads played very well today in my opinion and only conceded a goal after the ball had hit a player on the back after a clearance.
We lost 1 -0 but there were some excellent performances. Really pleased at this stage of the season."
Our next friendly is on Tuesday evening when we entertain our old local rivals Redbridge with a 7:45 kick=off.
Starting XI: Chris Clark, George Tubey, Dan Mackin, Lewis Payne, Sam Dennis, Scott Walsh, Frankie Williams, Jake King, Chas Liddiard, Danny Rafis, Jonathan Mogege
Subs (all used): Dan Fowler, Connor Halsey, Ben Turner, Joe Turner, Ben O'Brien, Abraham Adejokun
For photos click here and video clips click here
