Wasted chances cost Kenilworth Wardens as they lost 3-1 to fellow newly promoted side Triumph Athletic in the final game of preseason.

Wardens started the game well, moving the ball well and controlling the midfield.

A few early chances fell to the away side, as Jack and Sam Taylor in midfield were able to spring wingers Guy Pearson and Lewis Barry in behind the Triumph defence regularly.

However, if was a Triumph ball in behind the Wardens defence that was to lead to the breakthrough. The long straight ball from the hosts' defence sprung their striker in behind and he was able to loop the ball over the onrushing keeper Andy Whitehouse.

Despite the setback Wardens continued to move the ball nicely in midfield, with quick one touch passing helping to create chances.

On 30 minutes Pearson was once again put in behind the Triumph right back as he ran down on goal. The Kenilworth winger cut back inside as he entered the box and squared to Barry who tucked in the equaliser.

However, the Wardens were not on level terms for long.

On 35 minutes a poor throw in from James Smith on the half way line gave the ball to Triumph who broke forward quickly. A quick reverse ball into the box played their striker in to double his tally and restore the hosts' advantage.

The second half saw both sides make four changes.

Despite the changes, and with Kenilworth opting for a diamond in midfield, the game continued at much the same pace, with the Wardens successfully getting Dan Twigger and Ben Edmunds in behind, but not managing to find the back of the net.

Triumph would once again punish their opponent's sloppiness, when on 65 minutes a short passing moved played their striker into the box and he finished past Whitehouse at his near post.

Now 3-1 down, Kenilworth looked unlikely to really get back into the game, with manager Eamonn Richards telling his squad after the full time whistle that they would need to be sharper if they are to beat Folly Lane Reserves in the season opener on Saturday.

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.