Manager Graham Turner has declared himself happy with Shrewsbury Town’s opening pre-season friendly outing.

Town ran out comfortable 5-1 winners over Ilfracombe in their first game of the Joma South West Challenge Cup tournament in North Devon last night.

New striker Matt Harrold was on target while Ian Sharps, Steve Leslie, Benjamin van den Broek and Jake Robinson also found the net.

And Turner was pleased with what he saw as Shrewsbury secured the first of two victories they are likely require to reach Saturday’s semi-finals.

“It was a good work-out for us,” said Turner.

“I thought we worked very hard, passed the ball extremely well and created a number of good chances.

“There were some well worked goals. There was a tinge of disappointment we did not score more in the second half when one or two chances went begging.

“But overall when you look at what we are here for – which is preparation for the season – I’m pleased with what we saw, particularly in the first half.”

Turner was delighted to see Harrold get his first goal in Shrewsbury colours, and by the showing of fellow new boy Mark Wright.

“Mark only joined us on the coach coming down to Devon and showed up well, Matt got a goal so there were good performances and good signs,” added Turner.

“These are always difficult games to play in if you don’t treat them and the opposition with respect.

“The tempo was good and we contained anything they threw at us.”