By Callum Preston Kelly
A late Josh Keeya header capped off a positive pre-season for new manager Alan Julian, as The Beavers won 1-0 over Bishop’s Stortford at Beveree Stadium.
The home side had created chances throughout, but it took until the 79th minute for the deadlock to be broken, Keeya finding space at the far post to head home an inch-perfect Kris Campbell corner.
Hampton & Richmond have impressed throughout Julian’s first pre-season in charge, and this victory only added to the anticipation building before the National League South season begins next Saturday.
This was The Bev home crowd’s first opportunity to see a sign of things to come in the new season, and The Beavers couldn’t have made a faster start, Jaden Brissett threatening to run through on goal within the first minute.
Bishop’s Stortford will be playing in Step 3 this season following relegation from the National League North, and the away side showed some positive signs early in the first half.
But Hampton & Richmond began to take control as the half wore on, Keeya and Alex Wall both seeing shots saved, while Jack Taylor struck just over.
Julian’s side were playing well at both ends of the pitch, with some great defensive tackles to keep goalkeeper Ted Curd’s net safe of danger.
Jake Gray almost found the net twice in the second period, sliding the ball just past the far post, then seeing a wicked right-footed strike from range tipped brilliantly wide of the top corner.
Just as it looked like the match may be headed towards a stalemate, The Beavers found a breakthrough from the resulting corner – and it was two of the home side’s outstanding players on the day who combined to find the winner.
Campbell whipped in a trademark left-footed delivery right onto the head of Keeya, who had the simple task of heading into the bottom corner from close range.
It was no more than Hampton & Richmond deserved after another strong performance, and the lead could have been doubled late on when substitute Archy Taylor’s header was tipped just over the bar.
Julian’s first pre-season in management has seen four victories, one draw and one defeat, with a record in the past four matches of nine goals scored and only one conceded.
A new era at Beveree Stadium is underway, and The Beavers have made the perfect preparation before Hornchurch visit to kick off the season next week.