Tooting wound up their pre-season with a comfortable win against an Invicta side containing numerous new faces as they plan for life in Ryman South.

In conditions more suited to mid winter it was the home side who offered the first serious threat as Corbett (I think) broke away, beating Dave King, but not the crossbar. However, the Terrors soon settled like ducks to water,  which was useful, given the conditions. On the quarter hour Dean Hamlin produced a fine effort form the edge of the area that was pushed away for a corner.  Shortly after Hamlin turned provider, crossing low from right to left to Paul Vines, who dispatched his sixth goal of the season with a low half volley back across the goal.  

1 - 0  

As the rain subsided the home side threatened again, Jamie Byatt heading off the line after 37 minutes.  But it was Vines who continued to ask serious questions of a defence newly bolstered by ex Met man Lee Gledhill, forcing a good low save from Jevrons for another corner. Almost immediately Paul was on target yet again, this time with his head from the edge of the six yard box (See picture sequence).

HT 2 - 0

Part two brought a new challenge in the form of a driving cross field wind. Just four substitutions this time, but the visitors remained in control, despite an early wasted home chance which was struck wide of the left post.

Just as the Bog end faithful were taking shelter, the rain having returned to join forces with the wind, Ben Abbey made it three with a looping header.

FT 3 - 0

Starting line up: King, Hamlin, Bouadji, Goode, Byatt, Kunle Olusesi, Hunt, Hartburn, P Vines, Stevens, Pinnock

2nd Half replacements: Francis, Abbey, Pitterson, Henry-Hayden

After the match Billy said that he believed that we are getting a decent team together with most of the squad now finalised. "About 15/16 have signed already", but "There are one or two decisions that I've got to make, but don't want to make". 

"Keeping within budget means we can't have everyone".  Billy acknowledged that some decisions might not be popular with supporters as one or two players who performed for us last year may be on their way out of the club.

As for specific names Aaron Goode (pictured), who has impressed pre-season, will be staying.  Also, a couple of names from the reserve and youth set ups  are likely to get their chance.

Looking ahead: "Playing on good pitches against decent players gives you the chance to play football, which will suit us" .