1. Preseason training is ok, but until you actually play the game against real opposition you have no concept of how ready you are, as an individual or as a team. The slow start and the awkward first 30 mins showed how the team have a lot of work to do in match fitness and understanding each others game.
2. After the players adjusted to the pace of the game, we dominated, showing good pace against the Salford defence. Zac looked on pace and seemed to have undergone an, ellis at chesterfield, growth spurt in terms of strength. Although at times decided to take a touch too many and then get crowded rathee than cross a simple ball. Eyoma looks a big strong player, Max showed signs of promise although got caught too far forward a few times.
3. Preseason games are useless in getting to know players as at times it felt like we changed everyone except Ross (who looked capable and always seemed to be on the lookout to restart the game quickly often with a throw) zac despite being subbed came on again in a more central role and struggled to show the levels of ability he showed in the first half, probably as he had played 40 mins more than everyone else. The substititions ruined any flow to the match and nobody really stood out once the team had been changed and changed again.
The young no 14 looked good until you realise he is 17 and then you think we have a real prospect. In all the young lads who came on all looked not too far away from the first team. The no number Centre forward looked a handful.
It was the first run out for what is now Michael Appletons team and the only negativity I will speak is Harry Andersons haircut. Everything else is the reason we play friendlies, to prepare for real games. We learn we adapt and we move on.