Stevenage secured a 1-0 pre-season friendly victory over Colchester United at Broadhall Way, despite a controversial red card that left the visitors playing with 10 men. Jamie Reid's first-half penalty proved decisive after Sean Raggett was sent off for alleged handball on the line, a decision protested by both sets of managers.
What happened in the match?
Stevenage dominated early, with Reid nearly scoring in the ninth minute after a defensive error. The breakthrough came in the 15th minute when referee Richard Wharton awarded a penalty for handball by Raggett, who was shown a straight red. Reid converted the spot-kick to give Stevenage the lead. Colchester's trialist keeper made key saves to keep the deficit at one goal.
Why was the red card controversial?
Both Colchester's Danny Cowley and Nicky Cowley, along with Stevenage manager Alex Revell, protested the decision. Replays suggested Raggett may have blocked the ball with his hip rather than his hand. The incident overshadowed the friendly, with both sides frustrated by the early dismissal.
How did Stevenage perform?
Stevenage controlled possession and created several chances, with Reid and Phoenix Patterson testing the Colchester keeper. The hosts looked sharp in attack, though their finishing lacked precision at times. Defensively, they held firm against a determined Colchester side despite the numerical advantage.
What's next for Stevenage?
Stevenage, who finished 6th in League One last season with 75 points (21W-12D-13L), will look to build on this pre-season win ahead of their opening fixture against Oxford United on August 22. After a late-season slump (1W-0D-4L in their last five), they'll aim to start the new campaign strongly.
