Popular full-back Jonny Allen managed 70 minutes for Holbeach United in their 0-0 friendly draw at Oakham United on Saturday as he continues his recovery from a badly broken leg.
Seeing the two-time UCL Premier Division title winner back on the field was a big boost for Tigers player/boss Tom Roberts, who was also buoyed by Josh Ford, Ollie Pinner and Jordan Thomas making their pre-season debuts in the stalemate.
But there was one big negative for Holbeach, with key defender Stacy Cartwright suffering a nasty-looking ankle injury after falling heavily on the hard pitch.
Roberts admits he was let with mixed emotions after the clash due to the injury, but couldn’t hide his delight at having Allen available again for the first time in his reign.
“Jonny looked great,” said the Tigers chief. “It really is a big boost to have him back again.
“He came on after 20 minutes and told me that he didn’t feel he could manage the rest of the game – but he did it no problem.
“I don’t see any reason why he won’t be fully fit by the start of the season.
“Overall it was a good outing, we controlled the game and would have won but for a great goalkeeping performance.
“Sadly Stacy fell awkwardly and picked up an ankle knock. We’re hoping it’s not too bad, but at the moment it doesn’t look good.”
Holbeach are hoping to tie up a deal for ex-Stamford man Jake Walton and former St Neots man Dan Schiavi before the season begins.
Walton, who can play at full-back or in midfield, has trained with the Tigers and a deal looks close.
Attacker Schiavi turned out for Deeping Rangers at the weekend, but Holbeach still hope to land him.
One man that has put pen to paper with the Tigers is ex-Moulton Harrox defender Ashley Coddington. He was part of Moulton’s PDFL Premier Division title-winning side last season.
Roberts added: “Ashley has done very well in pre-season. It’s great to see one of the local PDFL lads show a bit of ambition and step out of their comfort zone for once.”
Holbeach host Nettleham on Saturday (3pm) and visit Whittlesey Athletic on Tuesday (7.45pm).
