Oakham United's first pre-season friendly against higher league opposition resulted in a win for the visitors.

Holwell Sports had a shot on target after the first few minutes and only an impressive save by Charlie Griffen prevented them from taking an early lead.

The Oakham goalkeeper was called on to make another save, this time from a header, a few minutes later.

Holwell Sports continued to press for the opening goal and had a couple of near misses.

Charlie Griffen was again in action when he saved a close range header at the second attempt.

Near the half hour mark Holwell Sports broke the deadlock with a header following a corner and three minutes later the visitors doubled their score.

Shortly afterwards Holwell Sports added a third.

This seemed to spur Oakham into action and Michael Nelson had a header on target.

A few minutes later the Holwell goalkeeper punched clear from a freekick as Oakham began to play with more urgency.

Trailing 0-3 at half-time, Oakham began the second half on the attack and had a couple of narrow misses.

Michael Nelson got a shot on target. Alex Brockbank's shot hit a defender and another shot from Michael Nelson went just wide.

At this point Oakham had started to play some very neat football and it was against the run of play that Holwell Sports added a fourth goal ten minutes from time.

Oakham's persistence was rewarded with a consolation goal, which was richly deserved, and they almost scored a second shortly afterwards.

In the second half Oakham played much better football and matched Holwell Sports in all departments.

Next Saturday Oakham are at home to Peterborough Northern Star of the United Counties League Premier Division, kick-off 2pm at Lands' End Meadow.

The ground is situated behind The King Centre, Main Road, Barleythorpe and is signposted from the road.