On Friday evening, Grays Athletic made their now season curtain-raising trip to the Wyldecrest Sports Club for their traditional fixture against our friends at East Thurrock FC - competing for the James Chisnell Memorial Trophy.

The game was an excellent opportunity for the players to have a run out in match conditions and for manager Mitch Hahn to take a look at a number of trialists, who might be impressing in pre-season training. The squad has taken shape over the summer and started work together a few weeks ago to build up fitness and togetherness.

Mitch chose to give as many players (including himself) the opportunity of minutes on the pitch, with essentially a different XI in each half, mixing up experienced and more junior players.

The first half definitely had the feeling of a “getting to know you” session. Blues dominated possession but couldn’t find the breakthrough. East Thurrock looked lively when they had the ball and the Grays defence had to keep their wits about them a couple of times when the home side broke forward.

The second half looked much more promising for Blues with the fresh mix of players looking to take advantage as East Thurrock tired.

Two quick goals after the midway point in the half from one of the trialists effectively sealed the game for Grays, with Gabriel Chapps finishing the scoring with the very last kick of the game, although how he managed to get the ball in the net when lying flat out on the grass was quite interesting.

The 3-0 scoreline for Blues reflected the balance of play over the 90 minutes but most importantly, we continued to honour Chizzy’s memory and it was great to have members of his family in attendance to present the cup to Blues captain on the night, Macca Joynes.

With thanks to our hosts at East Thurrock and we wish them every success for their forthcoming season.

Blues next test is away on Tuesday evening to another old adversary, Brentwood Town.