After a month of training, the game provided a valuable step up in intensity as the countdown to the proposed 5th September start date for the North West Counties League moves closer.

Manager Matt Barnes was more than satisfied welcoming the opportunity to see his side in competitive action for the first time since March. Significantly, he was “pleased to see that the messages and the things worked in training in terms of how I want the team to play, seemed to have been taken on board and put into practice.”

It is doubtful, that he will have learned anything in terms of the team he wants to start with come the big kick off, having largely fielded tw0 separate teams and utilised the partnership Heys have with Beechfield to give a few players a run out for the Manchester League Premier Division partners.

However, there will have been a few players, particularly amongst the newcomers, who will have already made an impression. Nathan Strong, who has joined, from Atherton LR was particularly impressive, scoring Heys opening goal and proving a real threat in attack.

Indeed, Strong nearly opened his account in the first minute, seizing on stray pass before shooting into the side netting.

Despite the long layoff for both teams, the game started at a cracking pace and only a timely interception by debutant Matt Russell, prevented an opening for the visitors.

Alfie Belcher fired a 25-yard free kick over before Strong, on the turn, rifled a shot just over.

In the 25th minute, Belcher turned provider with a great run and centre that picked out Jack Turnbull, but he couldn’t quite get the ball from under his feet and scooped his shot over

Although, Heys were enjoying the better of the possession, Beechfield were not without threat and on the half hour they took the lead. A superb diagonal pass picked out Jordan Jones, who showed great composure, before slotting low past Russell Saunders,

Heys responded well and levelled in the 38th minute. Jamie Sinnott showed some good footwork before delivering a low cross, for Strong, who made no mistake from ten yards out.

However, it took a fine save from Saunders, on the stroke of half time to ensure Heys went in level.

With a practically different line up on the restart Heys took a firm grip of matters and were rewarded with the lead in the 52nd minute. Some good approach play ended with Jack Coop popping up some 20 yards out and delivering a sumptuous half volley that gave the keeper no chance.

Heys were moving the ball about impressively and in the 65th minute increased their lead from the penalty spot. Jacob Holt was brought down, and Coop planted the spot kick home with aplomb.

There were changes thick and fast thereafter which disrupted the momentum of the game, but it was Heys who remained in control to complete a satisfying victory.