Overview

• Frank Lampard split his squad into two XIs for 45-minute stints to maximise player fitness, with Kai Andrews the sole 90-minute participant.
• Raphael’s low cross in the 63rd minute forced a Macauley Southam-Hales own goal that opened the scoring.
• Debutant Kaine Kesler-Hayden sealed the win by rounding the keeper and finishing off a precise Matt Grimes through ball.
• Full-back competition intensified as Miguel Angel Brau showcased his crossing ability alongside Kesler-Hayden’s composed defending.
• The match drew over 4,000 fans to the Memorial Stadium, underlining strong support in the build-up to the Championship season.