Shrewsbury boss Paul Simpson declared himself “chuffed to bits” as his team’s pre-season preparations ended in narrow defeat against Stoke - but warned that the real work is only just beginning.
Richard Cresswell’s second half strike ended Town’s unbeaten record at the Prostar Stadium but again they impressed against the physical Potters.
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“I think it’s been a really good pre-season,” said Simpson reflecting on three weeks that have seen wins over Stafford Rangers, Blackpool, Market Drayton and a draw against West Brom.
“I’m absolutely chuffed to bits with it to be honest. The fitness levels, the attitude, the results and the performances that we’ve had - we’ve learnt a hell of a lot from them.
“But they all count for nothing now, the real stuff starts here. The players are back in and it’s a proper week to prepare for the start of the season and let’s hope it’s a season we’re all going to enjoy.”
Paul Murray was rested against Stoke after picking up a knock to his Achilles against Market Drayton, so Shane Cansdell-Sherriff moved into midfield with new recruit Graham Coughlan making his debut alongside Michael Jackson in central defence.
Goalkeeper Luke Daniels, on loan from West Brom, also made his first appearance for Town.
“I think Shane is a very good footballer and I thought he slotted in there very well today,” added Simpson.
“I wanted him to be the holding midfield player and I thought he did it really well. It gives us good options when we’ve got players who can play two or three different positions.
“Graham Coughlan stepped in and looked like he’d been there all the time and also Luke Daniels - I thought he made a couple of fantastic saves in the first half. I was pleased with both of them.
“It was a very good game for us, a real tough test and we knew that it was going to be that way.
“They were good technically and also very physical so it’s things that we are going to have to compete with at our level but I thought the players put themselves about very, very well.”
After bringing in eight new players, Simpson believes he has built a squad capable of challenging for promotion and confirmed that there are unlikely to be any more signings.
Shrewsbury kick off the season at home to Macclesfield Town on Saturday.
By Sean Wozencroft
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