Welwyn Garden City’s latest pre-season game took them across to Crawley Green.

And played at Ashcroft School it ended in a 5-3 win for the hosts.

City used it to give players more match fitness with plenty of changes made at half-time.

The squad for the opening 45 minutes contained Jonny Sexton and Jay Rolfe, playing in a right-midfield role.

And it was the latter who scored the pick of the Citizens’ goals.

They had fallen behind to an early goal and a second followed despite the Citizens having the better of the possession, most of which was deep in Green territory.

But at point Rolfe produced his wonder hit, smacking the ball in first time from 25 yards and giving the keeper no chance.

Lee Close, arguably WGC’s man of the match, George Ironton and Brett O’Connor produced some sparkling approach play that deserved a goal but came without reward.

And it was Crawley Green who got the next one to lead 3-1 at half-time.

The second half featured a number of trialists as well as bringing Josh Bronti, Charlie Joy and new signing Joe Bennett into the fray.

And it was two of the trialists who bagged the next two City goals.

Former Hertford Town midfielder Dan Ferrigno and Tony Papadopoulus both netted from close range, equalling out two goals from the home side.

But as usual in pre-season the score was the least important thing.

Close, who arrived at Herns Lane from AFC Dunstable, looked an astute singing and showed his experience and skill by running the midfield in an energetic performance.

And even though he conceded five goals, a stat which will leave him scratching his head, Dan Green in the City goal was a bright spot.

Another one was Adam Hunt at right back who went on to have a fine game.

WGC continue their Southern League preparations with a trip to London Colney on Saturday.