The commencement of the 2024/25 season saw Sandbach United face Stafford Town at home. The starting line-up included regulars, Jordan Stafford, and Niall Cope, as well as many fresh faces such as Ben Greenop, Sam Lynch, and Taylor Kennerley.

Manager, Declan Swan stated that the new additions to the squad “are here to take Sandbach to the next level” in their push for promotion this season.

Jake Pollard almost put the hosts in front within the first five minutes of the game with a forceful, curled shot which sailed past the post.

Sandbach United started vigorously as they attempted to take the lead early into the fixture. Bach pressed well in attacking areas and dispossessed their opponents in order to produce chances on goal.

In the 15th minute, Ben Greenop’s precise volley was denied by Stafford goalkeeper, Adam Jenkins. Greenop’s dipped shot was miraculously tipped over the bar by Jenkins to deny Sandbach an early lead.

However, Greenop got his deserved goal just 10 minutes later with a brilliant low-drilled shot into the bottom left corner, which Jenkins failed to get down to.

In the 38th minute, Eshan Greer equalised for the visitors. His chipped shot dipped over Sandbach goalkeeper, Andrew Jones, who had come off of his line, but was late to meet the through ball to Greer.

After the half-time break, Sandbach nearly snatched a goal after a terrific through ball was played into winger Sam Lynch. Lynch shaped up for his shot inside of the box before missing the target, as the ball rocketed out of play.

Sandbach controlled the second half in terms of possession and the number of chances created. They were unlucky to not take the lead on multiple occasions.

With just five minutes remaining, Ben Greenop almost scored the winning goal for the Ramblers with a bullet header which was saved by the Stafford Town goalkeeper.

Both sides settled for a point at the full-time whistle, after 90 minutes of fast-paced, counter-attacking play.

The opening game of the season proved to be positive for the Ramblers, despite not snatching a winning goal in a fairly dominant second half. Stafford Town defended well until the final whistle to hold onto the 1-1 draw despite multiple opportunities on goal from Sandbach United.

Sandbach now face Barnton on Wednesday night where they will hope to get their first win of the season away from home. Barnton are coming of the back of a 4-3 home victory against Wolverhampton Sporting Community and will be trying to continue their winning streak in a couple of days against the Ramblers.

Written by Daniel Needham.