Report

Nova Saints kicked off their new season with a friendly against Madeley Sports in Ironbridge. Nova's starting lineup included a new addition, Ricky Luke starting between the sticks. Defence was made up of Alex Berry, George Coombes and Charlie Etherington. Midfield was marshalled by Steven Harper, Jamie Fenton and Matthew Humphries. Up front for Nova was Ben Edwards and Kyle Shore. Nova were short on players and could not field any substitutes. Nova, a couple of players light from last season started the game really well, and really should of capitalised on good early possession. Both teams were playing well midway through the half and were showing good touches. Nova were just edging it, showing a little bit more up front and on 26m Kyle Shore shot just over from a free kick. Half time 0-0. The second half exploded into action, the first minute in Steven Harper tapped in at the far post after great work from Edwards on the left, 0-1 Nova. Madeley went straight up the other end, and from a free kick brought a great save from Luke. Nova then took control of the match, 12m into the half Harper shot just wide after great pressing in midfield. A minute later Fenton should of scored with a headed that took the paint of the post. On 14m though it was 0-2, great work from Humphries who beat 2 players and showed great persistence to win the ball and blast it past the keeper into the far corner. Nova had now got their tails up, and on 17m it was 0-3, Berry bringing the ball out of defence and playing Edwards in who finished really well. Madeley tried to make a game of it and 20m in scored a great goal from a free kick, the ball flying into the top of the net. Nova did not drop the pace and two minutes later it was 1-4, Kyle Shore with a good turn and shot that gave the keeper no chance. Nova's last goal was a good old fashioned punt down field that Edwards latched onto and fired home, 1-5 to the Saints and a very good performance. Man of the match was Alex Berry who made countless tackles and passes.