Guildford City rounded off their pre-season programme with a convincing 4-0 victory over last season’s Surrey Premier County League champions Worcester Park.
Although the visitors compete a step below the level City will be playing at this season, Worcester Park arrived with an impressive pedigree after lifting the league title last term and are widely regarded as one of the strongest sides in their division. Although they didn’t play their usual full strength side today this still provided a worthwhile final test ahead of the new campaign.
The scoreline reflected City’s superiority, but it was the defensive display that particularly pleased manager Luke Simmonds. His side remained organised throughout, limiting Worcester Park to very few clear-cut opportunities and showing the sort of resilience that will be required in the weeks ahead.
City’s back line impressed from start to finish, winning the key individual battles across the pitch, while the central defensive partnership stood out with a composed and commanding performance. Their ability to snuff out attacks before they developed gave Worcester Park little opportunity to build any sustained pressure.
With pre-season now complete, attention turns to the challenge that lies ahead. Next Saturday marks a significant milestone in the club’s history as Guildford begin life in the Southern Combination League Division One with their opening fixture away to Reigate Priory.
The hard work of pre-season is now over, and City will hope the preparations and squad-building of recent weeks provide the platform for a positive start when the competitive action gets under way.