Lincoln 0 Ben Rhydding 5

BEN Rhydding travelled a great distance for their first match in their Men's North One promotion campaign and wanted a big win. Despite some nerves, they executed their game plan clinically and were rewarded with a significant performance and a convincing victory to set the tone for the season ahead.

It took longer than they might have hoped for, but they went ahead ten minutes into the game. Putting relentless pressure on their opponents did not yield the rewards they sought until Matty Bairstow carefully picked an inch-perfect pass to Will Musgrave in his favourite spot.

He wasted no time in delivering a beautiful finish past the Lincoln keeper to open the scoring. The game was scrappy for the next 20 minutes with Rhydding struggling with the dry, bouncy pitch.

It was Elliot Dowley who took matters into his own hands just before half-time. He nicked the ball off his opponent in the midfield and danced round several players before firing the ball into the roof of the net from a reverse shot.

Going into the break with a second goal enabled the team to settle and they came out looking dangerous. A beautiful passage of play led to the third goal, which Ethan Hodson slid home.

Excellent defensive work from Max Helme saw him rob a defender before setting up a goal for Andrew Lorimer.

Lincoln began to look exhausted and Rhydding continued to run hard despite the warm conditions.

Skipper, Musgrave closed the tally at five with a slick corner after relentless pressure on the Lincoln defence.

Rhydding will face Lancaster & Morecambe at home this Saturday (3.00).