Chippenham Town boss Tommy Saunders saw his side triumph 1-0 at Corsham last night and immediately condemned some of the uninspiring trialists on view.
Saunders fielded a team of fringe players, new signings and hopefuls in the goalless first half of the pre-season warm up and they didn't impress.
"The first half was pathetic. I was embarrassed,'' said the Town boss, after watching the likes of Juliano, Nolan Pierre and Paul Hunt fail to shine.
"I'm not even sure some of the trialists are good enough to play for Corsham no disrespect. For them to think they can play in the Dr Martens Premier is frightening."
Former Swindon Town star Mark Robinson had a quiet debut at right-back during the first 45 minutes in front of a 400-plus crowd as Corsham manufactured the best first-half chance when veteran Jon Freegard headed straight at keeper Paul Thompson in the first minute.
It was a different story after the interval as Saunders sent on the big guns, and but for last-ditch defending, Corsham could have suffered a heavy defeat.
The only goal of the game came on 50 minutes when midfielder Mark Badman was caught in the area by Corsham keeper Paul Weeks and Matt Rawlins smashed home the penalty.
Saunders' charges then dominated, with returnee Dave Godley stealing the show. The lanky striker who rejoined the club from Cirencester recently was one of three Town players to rattle the woodwork during a second-half blitz.
Tom Gould and Steve Tweddle both hit the bar too, and Corsham substitute Rob Humphries twice cleared off his own line.
Corsham manager Mark Godley was more than happy with the way his side battled against a club three divisions above his own in the non-league pyramid.
"I thought we did well first half, I was pleased with how we performed although to be fair I know that wasn't their full strength team," said Godley.
"In the second half they (Chippenham) were a class above, but it was a great work out for our lads and hopefully Tommy and the team will come back again."
Cirencester Town host another high profile club at the Corinium Stadium tonight, as Manchester United under 19s visit the Centurian's new ground. The match kicks off at 7.30pm.
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