Written by Szymon Gasiorowski

Reds’ second pre-season game ends in defeat.

Alfreton Town fell to a 2-0 defeat against National League side Notts County on Tuesday (July 12) evening as Billy Heath’s men stepped up their pre-season preparations.

Two goals either side of the break from Callum Roberts and Ed Francis were enough to sink the Reds in a dogged performance.

Both sides started brightly with plenty of spirit and energy, but it was Luke Williams’ side who looked to take control of the game in the early stages.

Dominic Smith’s unfortunate botched clearance landed at the feet of Toby Rowley, whose low drive across goal was heroically cleared off the line by Josh Clackstone.

Star forward Roberts was next to try his luck for the visitors moments later when his venomous free-kick went narrowly wide of George Willis’ left post.

Notts County grew in confidence as the half continued and they begun to dictate the tempo of the game as Heath’s men were forced to defend valiantly.

Roberts broke the deadlock for the Magpies on the stroke of half-time with a swiftly dispatched spot-kick after he was impeded in the penalty area.

Heath’s second half side struggled to match Notts’ intensity as they doubled the lead mid-way through the second 45. This time it was Francis’ name on the scoresheet having turned Kairo Mitchell’s effort goalbound with a backheel.

Danny Preston bravely put his body on the line to prevent a third for Williams’ men soon after.

Alfreton maintained their high spirits despite the score line, making it difficult for the away side until the final whistle.

A handful of trialists featured for the Reds as they implemented a variety of systems throughout the game. The tough loss could prove to be beneficial for manager Heath, giving him food for thought in the future.

Alfreton’s next fixture is against Grimsby Town on Saturday, July 16, 3pm kick-off.

Attendance: 725.