Badgers pipped by higher league opposition in friendly fixture

Badgers welcomed Sutton Coldfield Town, and former coach Neil Tooth, to the Jones & Co Stadium.

And it was the hosts who had the first attack, Reece Thompson going on an early run that was only halted by a foul.

Retford keeper Ayden Duffy was called into action, punching away a dangerous free-kick, saving down low and then halting a Sutton Coldfield attack.

On 28 minutes Retford went ahead, as Thompson and Brett Lucas combined to earn a free-kick, Bobby Johnson sent it into the box and Craig Fisher was on the end of Lee Holmes’ flick to head home.

The lead was almost cancelled out seconds later when a fierce cross came in from the left that had Duffy up at his near post to palm the ball over.

But it wasn’t until the 79th minute that Sutton Coldfield hit back.

Luke Champman headed home after the visitors took a free-kick from near the halfway line, despite the foul being committed well inside their own half.

Three minutes later, Sutton Coldfield were in front, against the run of play when the ball was struck low past Duffy to seal victory, which was very harsh on Retford who had played some excellent football throughout the game.

The final game of pre season is on Saturday afternoon at the Jones and Co Stadium with the visit Kidsgrove Athletic (3pm).

Badgers will then begin their league fixtures on 10th August, at home to Barton Town Old Boys