Alderley Edge first team played Stockport Bramhall on Saturday, 8th September, as part of their preparations for the new season in the North Premier Division.
With several players unavailable it was a new look line up that started the game with debuts for Andrew Wood, James Warburton (new), Sam Baker and Tim Pont.
Alderley were the better team for the majority of the game and opened the scoring when after tidy work in the 'D' Andrew Drummond smartly flicked home.
Alderley were always dangerous on the counter attack and Drummond created two goals with his pace and ability to cross on the reverse, the first was smartly deflected in by James Warburton (the original) and the second finished by Baker.
Bramhall kept their work rate high and won a couple of corners, but the new pitch meant routines were difficult to master. Bramhall pulled one back when numbers in the 'D' meant they were able to react first after Riley had made the initial saves.
Joe Coxon was then on hand to re-establish Alderley Edge's three goal advantage, being in the right place to finish another swift attack. Before half time Warburton grabbed his second and Alderley's fifth firing home a loose ball in the D.
In the second half Tim Pont showed his prowess from the penalty corner set piece, firing the ball towards the top corner and the defender on the line could not keep it out. This was Pont's last meaningful action after impressing in the first half in the centre of the pitch, under a clumsy tackle he twisted his ankle and went off as a precaution.
Bramhall were then awarded a penalty stroke for a heavy challenge as the ball ran off the pitch, but failed to take advantage hitting the cross bar.
There were more goals as Coxon hit a half volley into the bottom corner and followed it up with a neat turn and finish for his hat-trick.
Alderley Edge pushed on but they were left open at the back to counter attacks as the hot weather and small squad took effect. Bramhall to their credit did not give in and were rewarded with a couple of consolation goals, making the final score 9-3.
Alderley Edge 1s entertain Chester in the Cheshire Cup on Saturday at 1.30pm start at The Edge.
This is a member post by James Riley.
Photo: Joe Coxon who scored a hat trick.
