Athletic double up

Athletic secured a second straight pre-season victory as they triumphed 2-0 at Curzon Ashton.

Following the midweek success at Ashton United, Athletic impressed at the Tameside Stadium as Dan Gardner fired a free kick into the roof of the goal 10 minutes into the second half, while a Trialist sealed the result in the final five minutes of the game, firing into the bottom corner.

Chances were few and far between in the opening 45 minutes of the game.

Gevaro Nepomuceno headed wide, while Athletic goalkeeper Zeus De La Paz had to be alert to save a free kick from 25 yards.

Tom Hamer almost got on the scoresheet soon after, but he fired over the crossbar.

All the action came in the second half, with Gardner firing inches over from 18 yards.

It wasn’t long before the midfielder notched the first goal.

After a free kick was awarded on the edge of the box, he smashed the ball into the roof of the net to put Athletic ahead..

Athletic made it 2-0 in the final five minutes as substitute Johan Branger-Engone found a Trialist in the penalty area and he guided the ball into the bottom corner from 18 yards.

Frankie Bunn's team are in action again tomorrow night (Tuesday) as they head to Broadhurst Park in Moston to take on FC United (7.45pm kick-off).

Meanwhile, Athletic have been drawn in Group F in next season’s Checkatrade Trophy.

Bunn's side have been drawn in a group with Sky Bet League One sides Barnsley and Bradford City.

A Premier League under 21 side will be joining the group and that team will be confirmed on Wednesday (July 18).

The following clubs could join Athletic in the group stage:

Everton U21; Leicester City U21; Manchester City U21; Middlesbrough U21; Newcastle United U21; Stoke City U21; West Bromwich Albion U21; Wolverhampton Wanderers U21.

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