FORMER Saints man Pedro Monteiro (AKA Pele) had a run-out for AFC Totton in their 3-2 home friendly win over Sholing.
Pele, who will be running the Stags’ under-16s this season as part of the youth link-up with Matt Le Tissier’s Natural Coaching (MLTNC), may be available for the odd Southern League game further down the line.
Totton’s assistant manager Andy Darnton said of the 38-year-old former Cape Verde international: “Pele came in and did really well. He sat in the middle, he’s a good talker and he helped the younger players.
“He needs to get a bit fitter and will be available as and when he can, subject to his work at MLTNC. He’s very level-headed and has achieved a lot.”
It was 2-2 at half-time with Sholing brothers Dan and Barry Mason scrubbing out a two-goal Totton lead earned by Nathaniel Sherborne and a trademark Mike Gosney free-kick.
But Totton won it with the last kick when new full-back signing Curtis Angell – nephew of former Southend striker Brett – set up young Callum Hellyer to beat the onrushing Jordan Brooks.
Unfortunately Totton lost striker Dylan Knight to a shoulder injury.
“Dylan’s shoulder popped out and it’s popped back in again now. We’ll have to assess it over the next week to see if there’s any damage there,” reported Darnton.
After tonight’s trip to Brockenhurst at Grigg Lane (7.45pm), Totton entertain Lymington Town on Thursday (7.45pm) and Thatcham on Saturday (July 30) before winding up pre-season against Havant & Waterlooville at Westleigh Park on August 1, 7.45pm).
Steve Hollick’s Stags already have three pre-season wins having previously beaten Andover Town 3-0 and Team Solent 5-0, both away.
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