STRIKES by Dan Bridge and Dan Gregory gave Matlock Town U19s a deserved 2-1 win over an Owls Academy side at Causeway Lane on Thursday night.

Bridge plucked a goal out of nothing, curling a shot into the net from an almost impossible angle to give the hosts the lead before poor marking at a free-kick allowed the visitors to equalise.

It wasn't until six minutes from the end that Gregory sealed the win with a Ronaldo-esque free kick which had the 100-strong crowd on its feet.

Before the match, 16-year-old midfielder Darren Cartwright signed a first team contract after agreeing terms with the Gladiators.

Cartwright, who shone for the U19s last season, has also figured for the new Matlock reserve side in their pre-season friendlies.

In their latest outing, the reserves lost 3-0 at Northern Counties East Premier Division side Mickleover Sports.

Gladiators first teamers Gary Webster, Reuben Wiggins-Thomas and Nathan Benger all featured for the Matlock second string, who begin their league season in the Midlands Regional Alliance Premier Division on Saturday August 9, when they welcome Allestree to Cavendish Playing Fields.