Liam Watson happy with AFC Telford cup success
AFC Telford boss Liam Watson insisted he could not have asked for much more from his team in their opening pre-season game against Shawbury United.
to advance to Monday's semi-final against Market Drayton Town.
Nine of Watson's 14 summer signings were handed game time in the match last night, which came just a week into Telford's pre-season programme.
First half goals from out of contract midfielder Nathan Rooney as well as Adam Farrell and Sean Clancy secured the win.
But Watson was also keen to praise other members of the team including right-back Wes Baynes and midfielder Russell Benjamin following lively performances in a useful pre-season run out.
"It was probably not ideal for eight of our players to be playing 90 minutes but fitness levels looked OK," he said.
"We became a bit tired in the second half but there were some nice touches, the shape of the side was good. I think Wes Baynes is going to give us that little bit of impetus from the back, Adam Farrell took his goal particularly well and we look as if we have got different options in the team.
"They haven't had the balls out at all yet in training so for the first look you couldn't really ask for much more."
The game also allowed Telford – who were without Matty McGinn (suspended), Sean Cooke (recovering from fractured leg) and Mike Phenix (foot injury) – to run the rule over trialists Robbie Booth, formerly at Southport and Chester, as well as ex-Manchester United youth player Martyn Jackson.
Meanwhile, one of the Bucks longest serving players, Phil Trainer, has joined Conference National side Nuneaton Town.
Trainer, who clocked up more than 200 appearances for Telford, was out of contract this summer and although he was offered a new deal he jas opted to move on.
Watson said: "Good luck to him. He has served Telford particularly well over the years and he has gone to a good manager in Kevin. I hope it works out for him."
