Redditch United vs Coventry United

The trialist's 59th-minute goal, just nine minutes after Coventry's equaliser, was decisive. Had Coventry held out until later in the half, the momentum might have swung their way. Instead, Fry's side responded immediately to adversity — a sign of the resilience the caretaker manager will want to carry into the league season.

Tyler Bruck (Redditch United) — Won and scored the penalty that set the tone, showing composure from 12 yards. His foul-drawing run was the catalyst for the opener.

Trialist (Redditch United) — Scored the crucial second goal with a slick run and finish down the right, restoring the lead when the game was finely balanced.

Alex Cameron (Redditch United) — Sealed the win with a well-taken curling effort three minutes from time, showcasing quality finishing from the edge of the box.

Cameron Dunn (Coventry United) — Took his goal well from Barber's through ball and was a persistent threat in the second half before Redditch regained control.

Player of the Match: Tyler Bruck (Redditch United)

The 3-1 scoreline flattered Redditch's dominance slightly — Coventry proved competitive, particularly in the opening stages of the second half. The decisive factor was Redditch's ability to score twice within a 28-minute spell after the equaliser, while Coventry could not sustain their pressure beyond the 50th minute. The Reds' three-match winless run in pre-season (a 2-0 loss to Loughborough and defeats to Flint Town United and Gornal Athletic) had raised questions about their attacking output; this 3-1 performance provided a timely answer.

Redditch's eighth pre-season friendly of the summer was their first under Fry, who took temporary charge after Fowler's shock departure on 24 July. The result halts a run of three friendlies without a win and builds momentum ahead of their final pre-season test: a home fixture against League Two side Forest Green Rovers on Saturday, 1 August (3pm kick-off at the Valley Stadium).

Coventry United continue their preparations for the Northern Premier League Midlands season, a division they entered after winning promotion last term.

For Fry, the challenge now is to secure a positive result against Forest Green before the Southern League Premier Central campaign begins on 8 August against Leighton Town.

A professional, if not entirely polished, performance from Redditch under their new interim management. The quick response to Coventry's equaliser was the most encouraging sign. The trialist's impact and Cameron's late finish suggest there is attacking depth to build on ahead of the league opener.