Smith happy with high-scoring win over Oxford

Romford Recorder: Raiders import Jakub Klima lets fly against Oxford (pic: John Scott)Raiders import Jakub Klima lets fly against Oxford (pic: John Scott) (Image: Archant)

London Raiders captain AJ Smith was happy with his side’s 9-6 win over National League Division One new boys Oxford at the weekend.

But he admitted they still have work to do as they face up to their toughest challenges of the new season next weekend.

Smith was on target for the third match in succession, as player-coach Danny Marshall, defenceman Tom Davis and Czech imports Jakub Klima and Vaclav Drabek all netted braces.

And he said: “It was a good win and a good all round performance from the lads.

Romford Recorder: Jakub Klima, AJ Smith and Danny Marshall celebrate a goal for London Raiders against Oxford (pic: John Scott)Jakub Klima, AJ Smith and Danny Marshall celebrate a goal for London Raiders against Oxford (pic: John Scott) (Image: Archant)

“Obviously there are still things we need to work on and tighten things up at the back a bit. Scoring nine goals is great, but we shouldn’t be letting in six and that’s down to the whole team, not just the defence.

“However, with lots of first time fans at the game I imagine a 9-6 game would be more entertaining to watch than a 9-0.”

Raiders raced to a 5-1 lead in the first period and were never in any real danger against a Stars side who had upset the Isle of Wight a week earlier.

Raiders gave a home debut for young Josh Condren, who had made his first appearance for the club in the 4-1 win at Solent a week earlier.

And Smith saw plenty of other positives during the match, adding: “It was great to see young TJ (Fillery) getting some shifts and almost score a nice breakaway.

“Klima scored an early contender for goal of the season – it will take something special to beat that effort! – and Tommy D had a standout performance, scoring 2+2 and more than deserved his man of the match.

“Overall it was a strong showing and with a bit of work in training this week we will be more than ready for next weekend’s Invicta/Chelmsford double-header.

“We will also be welcoming Frankie Harvey back into the team, which will be a huge attacking boost.”