Holbeach United slipped to a 5-2 home defeat against higher-graded Lincoln United in their final pre-season game on Saturday, while Spalding United picked up a 1-1 draw against St Ives Town.
Starting with the Tigers, a goal from Josh Ford snuffed out an early Lincoln opener as the sides were locked together at 1-1 as the half-time whistle sounded.
Evo-Stik League First Division South side Lincoln then struck twice in as many minutes to go 3-1 ahead at Carter’s Park, only for Tigers player/coach Andrew Tidswell to pull one back.
Two late goals from the visitors left the scoreline with something a harsh feel, leaving Darren Jarvis’ side with work to do ahead of this Saturday’s UCL Premier Division opener at Desborough Town.
Meanwhile, a Josh Moreman penalty fired Spalding into a ninth-minute lead against old foes St Ives at the Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field.
That lead was wiped out by Danny Watson in the final minute of the first period, as he stabbed an effort past new keeper Richard Stainsby – who was standing in for Michael Duggan.
Elsewhere, Pinchbeck United cruised to an impressive 4-1 home win over Wisbech Town Reserves at Knight Street.
The goals came from Tyler Wright (2), Corban Oldham and Ash Murrell for Ian Dunn’s side.
Long Sutton Athletic also picked up a timely friendly success as Jonny Allen’s goal fired them to a 1-0 victory over Swineshead Reserves.
Pinchbeck welcome a Spalding XI for a friendly tonight (Monday, 7pm), before the Tulips then travel to Deeping Rangers on Tuesday night (7.45pm).
