Reserve's Outclassed By Shots

Last updated : 10 November 2004 By Mark O' Haire

It was the second X1's first game at HQ for three years and it will surely be one to forget, with the Shots playing a near first X1 and outclassing a youthful side.

Arthur Gnohere made his return from injury and played 45 minutes, looking steady, despite being a little way of full fitness.

A starting place on Saturday looks highly unlikely but he could still force his way into the squad.

He was joined by first teamers Gino Padula, Kevin McLeod and Marcus Bean who all had a full run-out.

Numerous under 18's played including 16-year old Scott Donnelly and an as yet unheard of youngster Shabazz Baidoo- who impressed up front looking lively and sharp.

Despite the scoreline flattering the visitors Rangers reserve coach Tim Breacker spoke after the game and remained upbeat, saying:

"It was a good game from our point of view because our lads were able to play against some players with real experience.

"Aldershot had a really strong side out. Sometimes you play games like this and the opposition put out a weak team and you don't really come away with anything.

"But we can take a lot more from losing a game like this than we could have done from an easy win. We've seen a lot of things here that we can look at and work on."

Team: Cole, Fletcher, Padula, Bean, R Johnson, Gnohere (Mulholland), Zadkovich, Donnelly, Baidoo, Townsend (Farr), McLeod.
Subs: Murphy, S Thomas, Judge