Ebbsfleet United made it five wins out of five in pre-season as a visit just over the river yielded two goals but – for the first time this summer – saw the defence breached as Thurrock struck an equaliser shortly before half-time.
Fleet listed winger Roman Percil among the substitutes, who was released by Tottenham earlier this summer and has been on trial at Southend, while Lloyd Harrington started the game, fresh from news of his permanent signing to the squad.
Charlie Sheringham maintained his sterling pre-season form with the opening goal on 36 minutes, less than 20 minutes after coming on for Billy Bricknell. He turned just inside the box and struck home with the outside of his foot. But just four minutes later Thurrock were level, Lamar Reynolds beating Brandon Hall with a neat finish.
Fleet introduced ex-Colchester youngster Jack Simmons for Percil after half-time and with the second period barely 10 minutes old, Matt Godden capped a standout display with an excellent strike off his right foot that gave his side what proved to be the decisive breakthrough.
Fleet conclude their pre-season programme at home to a strong Gillingham side on Saturday. Matchday admission is our standard price – £10 adults, £8 concessions, £5 adults and U12d FREE.
TEAM: Hall, Sessegnon, Palmer, Johnson, Clark, Harrington (Khinda-John 46), Cook (Osborn 70), McMahon, Godden, Bricknell (Sheringham 18), Percil (Simmons 46). Subs: Howe, Acheampong, Corcoran, Fraser, Edwards
