Shirebrook Town U19.........2

Matlock Town U19.............0

THE first of a run of friendlies saw Matlock take on newly-promoted Shirebrook, whose squad included three first team players.

But Matlock's young side was not fazed by this, dominating the first 25 minutes until Shirebrook scored on one of the few breaks they had.

Matlock knew their luck was out when Jack Barker chipped the hosts’ keeper, and, even though the ball was clearly two feet over the line, the goal was not given due to the lack of a linesman.

Matlock started the second half slowly, which Shirebrook exploited, increasing their lead to 2-0.

After that, however, it was one way traffic.

Matlock had several chances to get back into the game, but failed to convert them.

However, great credit is due to this Matlock team, who had seven 16-year-olds playing for them, for the real maturity and great promise they showed over the 90 minutes.