Trafford were beaten by a solitary late goal in this pre-season friendly / might-have-been-a-cup-final at the Red Rebels Broadhurst Park stadium last night (Tuesday 8th September).

Both sides hit the metalwork in the first half, FC having more possession but Trafford's young side showing resilient defending and pacy counter attacks that caused ex-Trafford defender Curtis Jones and his team-mates no end of trouble.

The game was staged partly because FCUM v TFC was to have been the 2019/2020 Manchester FA Premier Cup Final, however the showpiece occasion was lost when the season was abandoned due to the Coronavirus. A competitive and entertaining game ensued, as befitting a Cup Final, and it looked to be heading for penalties when in the 83rd minute FC broke down the Trafford right, a hint of offside was ignored by the Liner, and the cross was finished by Morgan Homson-Smith.

FC picked up the Shocal Shield, a fine piece of silverware donated for the occasion by our online ticketing partners Shocal. DC and the boys can be proud in defeat however - their performance on another day might have brought the trophy back to Shawe View.

Go to our website "Gallery" pages to view some photos from the game courtesy of Matt Wilkinson Photography (@wilkinsonphoto)

Trafford's Pre-season schedule is now complete as follows:

Saturday 8th August, Stockport Town (away) WON 2-1
Tuesday 11th August, New Mills (away) DREW 2-2
Saturday 15th August, Chadderton (away) LOST 0-4
Tuesday 18th August, West Didsbury & Chorlton (away) LOST 0-1
Saturday 22nd August, Ashton Athletic (home) WON 5-0
Monday 24th August, Abbey Hey (away) LOST 1-3
Friday 28th August, Matlock Town (home) WON 2-0
Tuesday 1st September, Ashton United (home) DREW 2-2
Saturday 5th September, Belper Town (away) DREW 1-1
Tuesday 8th September, FC United (away) LOST 0-1