Athletic Newham welcomed FC Romania to Dagenham at the Bobby Moore Sports Hub for their second pre-season friendly – Written by Wayne Saliba

Saturday 6th July 2024 – 2pm Kick Off

Athletic Newham 🔵🟢🟢 vs FC Romania 🔴🔵🔴

After the previous 4-0 loss, manager Diogo knew changes had to be made, Several changes were made for this game, including Junior coming in between the sticks on a possible season-long loan deal.

The game started brightly for Athletic Newham, with their first attack within 2 minutes. Alex had the ball in the net by the 3rd minute, but it was ruled offside. Newham continued to press, but poor shooting and missed opportunities kept the scoreline unchanged. The deadlock was finally broken just before the 10th minute with a long-range shot from Anderson that left the keeper no chance.

Despite numerous attacks, Newham couldn’t add to their tally, ending the first half with a 1-0 lead.

*Half Time:*
Athletic Newham 1-0 FC Romania

The second half was delayed as FC Romania took extra time in the changing rooms.

They started stronger, earning a free-kick in a promising position within the first 5 minutes, but the shot went wide, with Newham’s goalkeeper appearing to have it covered.

That was FC Romania’s only real chance as Newham regained control of the game. Despite continuous attacking, the finishing touch was missing.

FC Romania had a golden opportunity to equalize from the spot after a trip by an Athletic Newham player, but Junior saved the penalty to maintain the 1-0 lead.

Athletic Newham doubled their lead in the 68th minute with a strike from Edgar and sealed the victory with a third goal from Obama in the 76th minute, who calmly slotted the ball home.

*Full Time:*
Athletic Newham 3-0 FC Romania