Squad: Brownbridge, Joff, Gav, Carto, Rixy, Jase, Normo, Rafa, Nick, Tim, Gibbo, Eddie, Stu, Chris, Jordie.

On a muggy evening we found ourselves up against a young Gorleston side in our 2nd pre-season friendly. The rain earlier in the week had made a bit of difference however the pitch was still rock solid! After scrabbling around trying to locate the nets we managed to get the game started.

Easton probably started more brightly however both sides were looking to get the ball down and play. Some excellent work in closing down all round the pitch saw Gorleston limited to long cross field balls as they tried to break us down. We were also struggling to create any clear cut chances and were restricted to longer range pot shots. However, it was Gorleston who made the breakthrough on a quick counter attack. The Gorleston midfielder just pipped Brownbridge to a through ball and managed to slot it in from a tight angle. The goal gave Gorleston more confidence and they pressed forward with more purpose. Brownbridge had to be at his absolute best to first push away a drive heading towards the top corner and then an exceptional save to get down low (yes, really!) to push one round the post. We then had a torrential downpour which halted proceedings for a couple of minutes and added a bit of zip to the surface. Jason and Rafa both tested the Gorleston keeper but he was equal to the efforts to make good saves.

Second half kicked off and Gorleston continued to press. Easton were tiring somewhat and it wasn’t too long before the Gorleston midfielder added a stunning second. He picked the ball up about 25 yds out, advanced to just outside the area and hit an unstoppable drive into the roof of the net. Easton continued to try and play but the fitter Gorleston team were closing the attacks down. Gorleston added a third when a smart turn allowed the striker to pass the ball into the corner however Easton heads didn’t go down and were rewarded with a penalty. Chris made a strong run into the box however was brought down from behind…no doubt at all! Carto stepped up and saw his kick saved and somehow Jordy managed to get to the rebound first (must’ve been encroaching!) but the keeper stood up to make a second good save. There was still time for Gav to miss an open goal with a free header which went over the bar however it wouldn’t have made much difference as the game ended.

Another good performance from Easton palying a very good side. Manager Eddie Jack will have been pleased with the football played at times however will be a bit concerned at the lack of goals. We play again on Monday against St Andrews which’ll be the last friendly before the season kicks off.