Shrewsbury Town held to goalless draw in pre-season opener at Stafford Rangers

Shrewsbury Town were held to a goalless draw by non-league Stafford Rangers in their opening pre-season friendly.

Salop’s players were given their first run-out as preparations for the new campaign stepped up.

All of Shrewsbury’s summer signings featured over the course of the 90 minutes, including the latest arrival, Joe Gbode.

The match also marked a return to Marston Road for Isaac Lee, who played there during his rise through the non-league ranks.

The defender was part of the starting XI, which also included new arrivals Arkell Jude-Boyd, Byron Pendleton and Gbode.

Town threatened inside the opening few minutes when Tom Sang saw a shot from inside the area blocked.

Much of the attention was on the new recruits. Isaac Fletcher, who joined from Barrow for an undisclosed fee, showed his quality by twisting and turning before seeing a shot claimed midway through the first half.

Fellow new signing Jude-Boyd also forced a save, while Will Boyle headed over from close range after meeting Sang’s corner shortly before the break.

Cowan changed his entire outfield side for the second half, with Jack Price making his first appearance since returning to the club. New striker Josh Davison also featured alongside Jay Turner-Cooke.

Goalkeeper Harry Burgoyne came on for the second half and was called into action with 20 minutes remaining, while a trialist was also given the opportunity to impress.

After the hour mark, the trialist beat two Stafford defenders before seeing his shot blocked behind for a corner.

Price then fired over the bar, while Turner-Cooke drove into the penalty area before dragging his effort narrowly wide.

The game finished goalless, with Shrewsbury now turning their attention to the Isle of Man, where they will take part in the island’s Summer Football Festival.