The Dolphins secured a 2-2 draw in their final pre-season match against Salisbury at Tatnam on Saturday afternoon.

Joe Lea and Pat Suraci’s side came into the game in fine form having had a strong pre-season campaign but their biggest test yet was against National League South outfit Salisbury.

Injury doubts for Josh Staunton, Antonio Diaz and Jamie Whisken kept them out of the squad, but the Dolphins still set up with a strong starting eleven with the season getting underway in just under a weeks time.

The match got underway on a sunny afternoon at Tatnam with the visitors on top in the early stages.

Despite the Dolphins growing into the match and creating a number of chances themselves, it was Salisbury who struck first through Mike Atkinson as his long range effort beat the outstretched Adam Parkes in goal.

Ik Hill looked a bright spark in the first half for Poole, creating numerous openings down the left hand side, but were unable to find the back of the net as of yet.

Salisbury doubled their lead on the 25th minute as Charlie Davis was robbed on the edge of his own area and Noah Coppin casually placed the ball in the back of the net to give Salisbury a second.

Only five minutes later, Poole responded after great work down the flank from Ik Hill found Henry Spalding in space in the area who fired past the goalkeeper to get the Dolphins back in the game.

With Poole looking dangerous every time they ventured forward, a Charlie Davis free kick found the head of Kris Campbell who gracefully glanced home to draw the scores level again and go into the break at two a-piece.

The second half got underway in similar fashion with both sides showing high intensity and promise going forward but neither side were able to find a third in this one.

Selim Saied, Tyrrell Sampson and Pietro Almeida all entered the fray as the second half progressed.

As the half progressed, Salisbury were on top for the latter stages but a valiant defensive effort from Poole ensured they remained resolute and were able to hold onto a draw in the end as the referee’s whistle brought proceedings to an end at 2-2.

A comprehensive performance from Lea and Suraci’s side and certainly a promising one with the opening fixture right around the corner.

We are at home on the opening day (Saturday, 9th August) as we face Hanwell Town at Tatnam, you can purchase tickets here: https://app.fanbaseclub.com/club/https-pooletownfc-co-uk