The preparation for the 26/27 season got underway yesterday evening (7th July) as the Tulips faced Rushden & Diamonds. The boys, dressed in white and grey, got off to a quick start holding the larger share of possession and a shot from debutant Shane Byrne flew just above the crossbar. A succession of early chances followed as Ceesay came close from an inviting Sembie-Ferris cross.

The deadlock was broken in the 11th minute of the first half as Sembie-Ferris whipped in another dangerous ball that was only half cleared by the Diamonds defense, which then fell to Sani who unleashed a superb left-footed volley to put the Tulips 1-0 up.

The Diamonds responded well to the setback, inviting pressure and defending well with both Bruno Andrade and the former Tulip, James Clifton, proving to be a challenge for the boys. Spalding keeper, Dan Wilks, was tested twice by the Diamonds attack as they fired 2 shots at the opposing target.

A standout player in midfield was Shane Byrne who looked comfortable when in possession of the ball and seemingly controlled the midfield up until the end of the first half.

10 changes to the starting-XI followed at half time as Jimmy Dean aimed to get 45 minutes into everyone's legs. This change of personnel brought a more promising attacking flair with both Cybulski and Roberts entering the field. A few early shots were blocked by the strong Diamonds defense with Spalding on the front foot.

Bart Cybulski fired the Tulips into a 2-0 lead in the 65th minute as he won the ball back in the final third, shifted it onto his left foot and rocketed the ball into the roof of the net.

Following the 2nd goal, Spalding continued to control possession and produced several chances that resulted in a disappointing end product. The final 20 minutes that ensued brought many half chances that couldn’t be capitalised upon by either side, with the score finishing 2-0 to the Tulips.