Townson then failed to finish following good work from the otherwise off key Williams and Vics looked likely to pay for their indiscretions when Carl Frost broke clear only to shoot against the body of the advancing Connett. An entertaining game continued to develop, and play switched to Allan and he could have done better than shoot against Worsnop. Vics began to show signs of improving and after Townson had guided a Williams cross narrowly wide a mistake by the pedestrian Pritchard presented an opportunity for Townson but his snap shot eluded the near post. Yet Albion still had an opportunity to go into the break ahead and, it has to be said that, Connett was fortunate to get the better of a rebound from a one to one with former Vics winger Chris Gaghan to keep the score level at the break.

To be fair Albion had matched Vics for effort throughout the opening 45 minutes and, although lacking in the skill factor, were well worth the half time stale mate.

Steve Burr's team's ability to quickly step up a gear was quickly demonstrated . A slick Vics move ended with Williams deliberately laying the ball into the path of BRAYSON to tuck the ball neatly into the bottom corner. The whole context had changed and Witton were now chasing shadows. A slick ball into the box further exposed the deficiencies of Brian Pritchard leaving Worsnop to pull down Townson while through on goal. Why the referee chose to ignore FIFA directives and not red card Worsnop only he can answer. Satisfyingly for Vics ALLAN stepped up to convert from the spot.

Barely two minutes later and TOWNSON converted an opening created by Brayson to set the seal on what was now a comprehensive win.

With seven minutes remaining Witton were awarded a penalty but Connet saved the spot-kick well.

Witton did show some late initiative , but by this time the result was beyond doubt, although a late consolation was deservedly recorded. And the late compensation came from one of the games most impressive players, Darren Hockenhull. His impressive runs down the right flank had caused some problems and from one such run MOSELEY converted from close range to bring a degree of respectability to what was otherwise a comprehensive Vics win.

Despite various messages from both camps that this was no more than an exercise, this was a comprehensive and enjoyable win for Vics. It will give a lift to the coming season and give our fans a boost before a challenging campaign.