5 days ago
Barnton fightback inflicts Atherton LR friendly defeat
Atherton LR tasted defeat for the first time in pre-season after their Cheshire hosts Barnton won 3-2 on Saturday.
LR provided an entertaining start with Harry Forshaw and Joe Bacon impressive in the midfield build-up play.
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Tom Romano was able to capitalise off of this, with Tom Lawless linking through an excellent through ball to find Romano who slotted the ball under Monty Parks to give LR the early lead, after just 12 minutes.
The hosts picked up their game with former Ashton Athletic player, Deklan Hill, grafting but all chances were denied by Lewis Adams and his LR backline.
The second half saw the introduction of Barnton's Jack McKean, who would prove to be a vital change in the second period.
Barnton started quickly and seconds in they were level after a quick counter-attack allowed McKean to receive a wide ball and slot it past the LR trialist keeper to level the scores.
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The barrage continued four minutes later, when Barnton struck again with yet another brutal counter which allowed McKean to strike inside the box and put the host's ahead.
LR were eventually able to respond via Lawless who in the 61st minute, took advantage of a disorganised defence and using his quick feet, danced through to slot home a leveller.
Barnton retook the lead 10 minutes later as a late challenge in the LR defence resulted in a penalty which was calmly slotted away by McKean, giving him a second half hat-trick.
The host's held out and took a victory after an entertaining second-half comeback
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LR boss Dave Jones said: 'More minutes in the legs with no injuries on a difficult afternoon with the heat and a difficult pitch.
'Thanks to Barnton for hosting us, we now look ahead to our final push in pre-season last few games as we ramp our preparations up.'
LR return to Crilly Park to host Maine Road tonight (7.45pm).
