Unexpected reverse for Pegasus Juniors at home to Smethwick Rangers

Pegasus Juniors suffered a surprise reverse when they were comfortably beaten by West Midland League Premier Division newcomers Smethwick.

The Black Country side, who were paying their first visit to Old School Lane after their promotion last season, went ahead after 10 minutes when a speculative shot by Ashveer Nawal from outside the penalty area curled into the net.

Pegasus had started brightly but fell two behind four minutes later when, in a counter-attacking move, Keiron Bennett set up Gangandeep Kullar to score from close range.

Although Pegasus dominated possession, they struggled to come to terms with the difficult conditions after a deluge just before the kick-off.

They continued to attack after the interval but were unable to test Rangers keeper Gurtis Bhullar.

And they were caught on the break again on the hour when Bennett added to the lead.

Eight minutes later, Juniors' determination to play the ball on the ground finally paid off when Keith Jones rounded of a fine move to reduce the deficit.

But, in their desire to gain further goals, Pegasus were caught out again in the dying minutes when Nawal tapped in at the near post.