Both teams started with strong lineups each having two trialists and despite a dreadful start from the home club in the second minute a mistake allowing Ellis Brown the opportunity to score.

Despite being behind early in the game Darlaston matched their lofty opponents who this season will be looking to gain promotion back into the National League after losing the playoff final last season to Leamington.

The visitors punished the home defence for a second error in the took advantage of a second error in the 23rd minute Matty Stenson scoring from 18 yards. After a competitive half, the teams went in at half time with AFC Telford United 2-0 up.

Both managers made changes for the start of the second half, which once again proved to be quite even with neither team taking charge. More players were introduced as the half went on. AFC Telford added a third goal following a sublime run and finish by Rhys Hilton in the 64th minute. Darlaston had two great chances in the final five minutes of the second half, the first found the back of the net, a neat run, and finish from a trialist beating Telford’s keeper at the near post, and the final action of the night saw Kieran Miller miss when well placed.

The game ended with a 3-1 win for AFC Telford United.

Both clubs would take real positives from the game, many players got minutes in legs trialists were given minutes by both sides to impress, but a good crowd of 180 supporters saw a competitive game and surely all went home happy as both clubs step up their preparation for the start of the season in August.

Button Oak photography once again covering the event and the images of the game can be seen by clicking AFC Telford United

This coming Saturday Darlaston will welcome their friends from Solihull Moors to the Paycare Stadium for the first three games in four days Saturday’s game is followed by a visit to Castle Vale Stadium to play Paget Rangers and Tuesday Darlaston are back at the Paycare Stadium for a big local Derby when a large crowd is expected when Bilston Town visit