John Dungworth's Reserve team side has been defeated by a strong Stoke City eleven at the Britannia Stadium this evening despite Andy Booth's goal just before half-time.

This win saw the hosts extend their unbeaten start to the Pontins Holiday's League campaign and was sealed by goals from strikers Pericard and Parkin.

The first goal went the way of Stoke five minutes before half-time, when ex-Portsmouth man Vincent Pericard made no mistake in beating Alex Smithies after being put through on goal by strike partner Parkin.

However, the score was level at the interval thanks to Andy Booth, who expertly headed home a good cross from Danny Racchi at the back post in typical fashion.

Big striker Sam Parkin scored the winner for Stoke shortly after the hour mark, rifling the ball past Smithies from around 15 yards out.

Town played in a 4-4-1-1 formation this evening, with England under-17 'keeper Alex Smithies protected by a back four of, from left to right; Tom Jackson, Shane Killock, David Mirfin and Danny Racchi. Chris Brandon and Matty Young occupied the left and right wings respectively with the duo of James Berrett and Mitchell Bailey in the centre - leaving the legendary Andy Booth to lead the line with Michael Collins playing just off him.

First-Team Coach Dungworth told htafc.com that he was very pleased with the performance of his side.

"We played very well throughout the game in what was a tough test for us. Luke Malcher had a great chance towards the end of the game and Chris Brandon hit the post from around 25-yards out, so it could have easily been a draw. We played some good controlled football and had decent possession for the entire game."

Town's Team vs. Stoke City:

Alex Smithies, Danny Racchi, Tom Jackson, Michael Collins, Shane Killock, David Mirfin (Luke Durham 46), Chris Brandon (Dave Heagney 53), James Berrett, Andy Booth (Luke Malcher 46), Mitchell Bailey, Matthew Young (c)

Unused Subs: Curtis Roberts, Liam Ridehalgh