Kay: Hibs were outpassed and outfought by Woodlands

A much-changed Leamington Hibs line-up suffered a 3-1 defeat in their annual Friendship Cup encounter at home to Coventry Alliance side Woodlands.

And despite shuffling his pack, player-coach Rich Kay said the manner of the loss was “a reality check” for his MidComb Division Two side.

“It was a much-changed team from last week but the work rate and quality football was lacking in areas,” said Kay.

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Woodlands are a good side and passed the ball much better than us all game which is unusual for us.

“They were much the better and hungrier all over the park, especially second half.

“Again we have made changes for the half, which has unsettled us, but that’s what pre-season is all about.

“It’s a reality check for us but I’m pleased that Woodlands gave us a real game that will improve us in the long run.”

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Woodlands settled the quicker and played some good football but chances were scarce, with the visitors hitting the bar with a header and Hibs’ player-coach Rich Kay dragging a shot wide on the counter.

Hibs took the lead on the half-hour when Tim O’Mahoney poked the loose ball home after Mike Yeates’ effort from Calum Yeates’ corner was cleared off the line.

Woodlands responded well and got a deserved equaliser after a defensive mistake allowed Tom Browett to show good footwork before sliding the ball past Ollie Manuel.

Hibs rang the changes at half-time and it was the visitors who gained the momentum when a superbly struck shot from the edge of the area gave Manuel no chance.

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Andy Yeates had a shot blocked after good link-up play with Kay as Hibs tried to respond, with Sam Canty producing a tame follow-up.

Woodlands made the game safe ten minutes from time when the ball looped over the stranded Manuel for an unfortunate own goal.

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