From here, Eccleshall grew into the game, and 10 minutes later, it was 2-0 to Eccleshall. A fantastic ball was played over the Uttoxeter defence, which Downes ran onto, and chipped it delightfully over the goalkeeper and into the net.

Eccleshall could have had a couple more within the next few minutes, hitting the bar and having a header cleared off the line in the space of two minutes.

The Eagles did get a third 10 minutes before half time, when Booth made a nice run down the left, pulled it back for a simple finish for Downes.

Uttoxeter had a chance to pull one back just before half time, when Standbridge seemed to slip and bring down a Uttoxeter attacker in the area, giving them a penalty. However, the penalty was too high, clipping the bar as it went over.

Eccy started the second half well, and 10 minutes in, the Eagles were four up when a free-kick hit by Wakefield struck the foot of the post, and Reid was there for the rebound.

The game started to die out after this, with both sides showing signs of fatigue. With it still being early in pre-season, this was to be expected and the idea of these games is to get match fit and for everyone to get to grips with everyone else in the squad.

All at Eccleshall would like to thank Uttoxeter for being a fantastic host, and we would like to wish them the best of luck for the upcoming season.

We had a few injury worries with Arber going down in the first half after a tough challenge. It didn't look too serious but hopefully he will be OK for our next game on Thursday.

Thursday's game sees us take on Leek C.S.O.B at Pershall Park. Kick off is at 7.30pm, so make sure you get down to support the lads and be with us going into the new season.

COYE