United’s reserves were well beaten at Bristol City this afternoon, going down 5-0 eventually, after holding the Robins to 0-0 at half-time. Included in United’s line-up was triallist Andy Brownrigg at left back. Brownrigg has played for Stalybridge Celtic, Kidderminster, Morton and Northwich Victoria, as well as being on the books of Yeovil, Rotherham, Norwich and Hereford, scoring four goals in his 29 league games.

Also featuring for United were James Hunt, getting his first taste of action after being suspended for three games, ROS Chris Hackett and, significantly, Jamie Brooks. Brooks came on for the last half hour, after having played the same length of time for the youth team last Saturday, replacing Manny Omoyinmi. Mark Rawle also played up front for United.

Player coach David Oldfield played the full 90 minutes. Oldfield admitted that he thought that the Us’ lack of match fitness was the difference between the two sides in the first Pontins Holidays Combination fixture of the season.