Clipstone boss Dave Hoole hails pre-seasonn campaign as a success

The Cobras followed up from Thursday night's 5-1 win over South Normanton with an impressive 4-1 win over Renishaw Rangers on Saturday.

It left Hoole in buoyant mood ahead of the East Midlands Counties Football League season opener at Graham St Prims next weekend.

“I have been pleased with how pre-season has gone, we have put a lot of time and effort into it,” he said.

“It is not just about arranging friendlies against sides you will turn over easily, pre-season has been structured for the side we have got.

“It is good to finish four unbeaten. The start of the season has come round quick and we are looking forward to it.

“Hopefully COVID is lifting its grip on football and we will get a few people In through the turnstyles.

“We have got our youth and those we are bringing in will bring experience, composure and know when to play.

“We have got a good mix at the moment and we should be ok next season. We are happy with where we are.

“The new boys are fitting in nicely and those out there are buying into our work ethic.

"Jack Warwick will always score goals, the only time I would get concerned is if he stops creating chances.

“He’s worked hard in training and today a few people have seen a different player to who finished last season.

“He is looking sharp, I am very pleased for him.”

Jack Warwick slotted home from close range on eight minutes after Chib Chilaka had a shot parried by the keeper.

Ryan Skidmore produced an excellent finger-tip save from a 27th minute free-kick to preserve Clipstone’s lead.

But Clipstone were pegged back on 56 minutes when they failed to deal with a corner.

They hit the front once again three minutes later when Josh Pickering was played in by Alex Mann.

It was 3-1 on 71 minutes when defender Tom Weaver smashed home.

And the win was wrapped up two minutes from time when Warwick bagged his second with the aid of the crossbar.