Christchurch FC cruise past Ringwood FC as new boss Ben Hatch finds his feet

Pre-season friendly

Ringwood Town FC 1
Christchurch FC 3

CHRISTCHURCH have continued their preparations for the upcoming season with an impressive 3-1 over Ringwood Town.

The win gives new Christchurch manager Ben Hatch his second pre-season win following last Saturday's six-goal demolition of Hampshire Premier Football League's Sway FC.

Christchurch almost fielded an entirely new side after a raft of new signings followed Hatch and assistant manager Barney Gritt through the door.

The early signs seem positive, with the visitors looking the most threatening against a well-drilled Ringwood side.

After half an hour, the breakthrough came when Eder floated a lovely chip over the keeper from 20 yards out.

Christchurch doubled the advantage just before the half-time whistle with a 39th-minute strike from Danny Brown.

Ringwood pulled a goal back midway through the second half, but Brown dashed any hopes of a revival when he scored his second to make it 3-1.

Christchurch manager Hatch said: "Last night was a big test against a Ringwood team that has been training for five weeks already. We knew it wouldn't be an easy test against them as they will be up near the top of the Wessex Division One table next season.

"We are a new team trying things out and players out, and I am more than pleased with both games we have played. Of course, we have areas to improve on, but all the players, coaches and Christchurch board are buying into what we are doing.

"I'm really excited with these bunch of lads that have all come together. It's going to be an exciting season!"