Slazenger Mens 3rd’s returned to League action in a new league for the third time in 3 seasons. With a place in division 4 and host of new players in the squad, the team were looking to start the season on the front foot. The game started well, though the team appeared rusty, with several passes going astray. As the team got into the game, the flow improved and Slazenger controlled much of the passing. Hard work from Matt Banks, Rob Whawell and Andy Fisher gave Slazenger much of the ball. However, the home side worked to break down the attack and stifle much of the goal scoring potential.
It was Doncaster who scored against the run of play with a quick counter-attacking move slotted the ball past keeper Darren Buttery. Slazenger continued to exercise control of the game; Ian Hedges up front, and wingers Danny Tiffany and Matthew Feather all went close, but Doncaster counted with their second counter-attack of the game to put them 2 ahead.
In the second half, a short corner was rewarded with a goal as a strike from Paul Johnson was netted by new captain Simon Taylor. Slazenger continued to pressure, with most of the possession, but with several key decisions against the visitors, they found the goal illusive.
