With the squad returning for the first time from the summer break Grays were looking to work on fitness and getting the boys use to each other again with Grays adding a few new faces to a well established team.
Grays started the strongest and were soon back to playing the ball around, chances followed and maltese soon took one of the opening chances and scored from good work down the left. The game continued to be bossed by Grays and all the team put in a good shift which will hold them in good stead for a hard season a head. Maltese added a second before half time and Grays took a well earned 2 goal lead into the break. Fuller and Gardiner running the midfield and some excellent football from both wide players, Glock and Stacey.
Fitness became a factor in the 2nd half Waltham Abbey made 3 changes at half time which allowed them to start the 2nd half on top, a defensive mix up, from an otherwise strong back line Casey, ward, Nicholson, Ryan and Kemp allowed the Abbey back into the game, the Grays boys took this as a sign to start playing again and within minutes went back 2 goals clear with a good free kick from Louch.
Grays then took control of the game and sealed a good win with another goal from Loach after good link up play from a strong forward line.
Overall a good pre seson performance which gives manager Gary Fuller plenty to build on for the season ahead.

We would like to thank Waltham Abbey for the game and their hospitality.

by Aaron Casey