ANDOVER Lions started preseason in impressive style with a 3-1 victory over a strong Shrewton United side.

The team, sporting several new editions, dominated from the start with a front three of Robbie Owen and new signings Ollie Yates, from Andover Town, and Shane Lock, from Andover New Street.

The trio caused no end of problems but it was Lee Cogan who had the early chances including heading wide following a Yates cross.

Shrewton did hit the post from a free-kick on a rare break but debutant Yates put Lions ahead on the half hour with a drive from 20 yards.

Owen soon added a second after being picked out by the excellent Danny Lewis.

New manager John Smith, who joined the club this summer from Arms Athletic, made a number of changes early in the second half and the game lost some of its fluency.

Shrewton began to get more possession and pulled a goal back with 15 minutes left but Owen restored the two goal advantage with a calm finish, following up after the keeper parried his first effort.

Talking about the performance, Smith said: “That was a very encouraging performance to start our season.

“Shrewton are a very good team and are as strong as anyone we are likely to meet in our league this season.

“Our play going forward was very strong and when you consider that this was the first time that they had played together there is no reason why we won’t score plenty of goals this season.

“We still have players like Jazz Beavis and Tommy Stringer to come in so competition for places will be strong and the future looks very encouraging.

“Players like Joe Wright and Ollie Yates have dropped down a level to play in this team but they know it won’t be easy.

“The important thing is that all of this squad want to play here for the Lions and want to win something.

“The best local players have been playing for teams outside of the town for too long and it’s good to get this group together and the spirit in the camp is terrific.”

Lions will now face the likes of QK Southampton and Overton before kicking of their league campaign on August 15 when they visit league new boys Sway.

The team will also have friendly matches against the likes of Laverstoke and Ford.

To follow Lions’ progress this season keep reading the Andover Advertiser every Friday.

For up-to-the-minute news you can also visit the sports page of our website: www.andoveradvertiser.

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For Andover Lions’ own website visit: pitchero.com/clubs/ andoverlionsfc/