Saints players are fit and new players fitting in well

Casey Gaggini was on target as Southam beat Coventry Sphinx 2-1.

After fielding a mix of academy and youth team players in the previous week’s 7-0 win at Priors Marston, manager Lee Knibbs put out a more experienced team for the visit to the Midland Football Alliance side.

Saints went into the break a goal to the good thanks to Casey Gaggini, but the home side drew level in the second half.

Full-back Ben Tennant, a product of Ian Ray’s youth system, scored the winner for Saints to add to his hat-trick at Priors Marston.

It was a happy return to Sphinx Drive for Knibbs, who was assistant manager at the club before switching to Saints.

“It’s early days, but I was pleased with the fitness levels, which I have emphasised in pre-season, and the way the new players have integrated into the team,” said Knibbs.

Meanwhile, Stockton’s first team opened up their friendly campaign with a 3-2 win over Midland Combination Premier visitors Racing Club Warwick.

Two goals from Luke Cole and a first-half Max Beard strike followed by a disciplined second-half performance from the hosts gave them victory over Michael Haydon’s side.

Stockton’s reserves made an even earlier start, drawing 3-3 with Leamington Hibs, with Rhys Pugh bagging all three for Stockton.