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County off and running with a win

23/ 7/2008

COUNTY won 3-2 in blustery conditions in their opening pre-season friendly at Cammell Laird on Saturday.

The Hatters started well and raced into a two-goal lead inside just 15 minutes.

Anthony Pilkington fired home the first from the edge of the box, and then turned provider with a cross from the right that was turned in by Michael Raynes.

Luke Holden pulled one back but, five minutes later, trialist Lee Novaks restored County’s two-goal advantage with a cool finish after being set up by Matty McNeil.

The newly-promoted UniBond outfit again reduced the arrears when Mark Reid netted just before the break.

County boss Jim Gannon made three changes just after the hour, with Jim McNulty, Jason Taylor and Leon McSweeney replacing Gareth Owen, Gary Dicker and McNeil.

The Hatters had a real let off soon after when Raynes miscued a backpass. The ball was heading for the top corner, forcing Owain Fon Williams to make a save.

McSweeney had County’s best opportunity of the half, but his volley from the angle of the box dipped just over.

After the match Gannon was pleased with the victory, and the efforts of goalscoring striker Novaks, who is on trial from UniBond League side Newcastle Blue Star.

Gannon said: "We played some decent football, particularly in the first half-an-hour.

"It was a nice finish from Lee. I’m sure he’ll be happy with his contribution."

Gannon was set to take a strong squad to last night’s [Tues] friendly match against Rochdale at Spotland.

As there is an under-21 development squad friendly at Woodley Sports tonight [Wed], Gannon was set to take a 16-man first-team squad to play at Rochdale with younger players being saved for the match at Lambeth Grove.

Don’t forget County host a Liverpool XI at Edgeley Park on Saturday [3pm kick-off], before travelling to the Moss Rose on Tuesday, July 29, to take on Cheshire neighbours Macclesfield Town [7.45pm ko].