Kenilworth Wardens secured a 3-1 victory over Central Ajax Reserves today courtesy of a brace by Guy Pearson.

Ajax hosted Wardens at their Hampton Road ground in today's friendly which was perhaps more notable for the weather conditions rather than the quality of football on display.

The hosts started the game the better, controlling the ball and keeping the Kenilworth side pinned back in their own half.

When they did manage to gain possession, the away team looked disjointed in attack and nervous on the ball, preventing any real chances.

Andy Whitehouse was the only Wardens player who could claim to be fully at it during the opening exchanges. A number of important saves from the Kenilworth keeper kept the score level as Ajax created a number of decent openings.

However, as the rain began to really come down, it was Kenilworth Wardens who were to take the lead. On 40 minutes Phil Rudd won the ball in defence and played a ball out to Karl Foster on the right flank. He drove forward and his attempted cross to striker Lee Jassi somehow looped over the Ajax keeper and into the back of the net.

The away side managed to control the last five minutes of the half and take their 1-0 lead into the break.

The opening five minutes of the second 45, however, were far more encouraging for Kenilworth as they doubled their lead straight away through Guy Pearson.

Eamonn Richards did well to win possession in the Wardens' defensive third before moving the ball forward. Smart one and two touch passing saw Jassi lay the ball off to Sam Taylor who was able to dribble forward and then find Pearson in space to slot home.

Whilst Kenilworth looked to get control of the game, and impose their passing play on the proceedings, the hosts pulled a goal back on 55 minutes.

The ball was played out wide down the Ajax right, allowing their winger to hit a smart cross into the box over both Wardens centre backs. Right back James Smith made a poor job of a routine clearance, playing the ball straight to an Ajax midfielder who was able to power the ball home.

With a route back into the game, Ajax continued to pile on the pressure, and would have doubled their lead on 60 minutes had it not been for a dubious offside call.

An overload down the Ajax left flank saw their winger get in behind the Wardens' defence and play a smart ball across the six yard box for their striker to apparently equalise. However, the flag was raised for the initial ball in behind, keeping the score at 2-1 to the away side.

Ajax continued to search for an equaliser, committing men forward and controlling the ball. However, as the half progressed Ajax failed to make any clear chances.

As the clock ticked down it was Kenilworth Wardens who were to score the final goal of the day. A fine ball over the top from centre back Archie Evans allowed Pearson to run through on goal unopposed. He remained calm and finished into the bottom left corner.

Wardens did make chances to put the result beyond all doubt. Pearson again was involved as he linked with Smith - now playing in centre midfield - to play the youngster through. However Smith lacked a clinical finish and his strike straight at the keeper was tipped over the bar.

Despite a slight altercation right before the full time whistle, Kenilworth Wardens left the field satisfied with a 3-1 victory, even if their performance hadn't been as strong as in previous weeks.

Kenilworth Wardens are proudly sponsored by LPC Sports Therapy and Yoga.

Lead-therapist Lily is a Level Four qualified sports massage therapist and yoga Practitioner, specialising in anxiety support.

Lily is trained to diagnose injuries, rehabilitate, and is fully recommended by players of Kenilworth Wardens.