A goal in each half helped Birstall United past Hinckley AFC in their latest pre-season friendly at Meadow Lane.
On a bright but breezy summer evening, Hinckley went down to their league rivals from last season as the young side were beaten by their hosts.
The opening goal came midway through the half, a well-worked goal as a neat move with intricate build-up play was finished from the edge of the box.
Hinckley had a chance to get back into it, but the Birstall ‘keeper made a fine recovering save after Hinckley’s trialist forward had rounded him and looked set to level.
The home side could have doubled their lead before the break, but blazed wildly over when well-placed.
AFC’s best chance of the second half came through Lewis Padmore’s low strike that was saved, but Birstall doubled their lead on the hour when Paul Pallett stroked home from the penalty spot.
After that, chances were few and far between as both sides made a host of changes.
Hinckley are back in action away at Coventry Sphinx on Friday evening for a 7.30pm kick off.
