Matlock Town boss takes positives from opening friendly win

Alex Byrne, Callum Chippendale and Liam Hughes all found the target as Matlock came from behind.

It was the first pre-season outing for the Gladiators after their visit to New Mills on Thursday night was called off six hours before kick-off with Matlock putting a statement on their website that it was due to precautionary measures and that no further comment would be made.

“I think Wythenshawe will probably win their league as they have players with experience of higher leagues and others that are well capable of doing so,” he said.

"They gave us a good game as I thought they would. I thought we looked a little leggy, especially towards the end.

"It was a good pitch but the grass was a bit long as it can be at this time of year. We’d trained hard on Tuesday and then had the Thursday practice match.

"We tried to get as many lads as possible a good run out as we want lads to get minutes under their belt.”

But, although they won the game, Phillips had a mixed review of the afternoon’s events.

He added: “I was disappointed in one or two of our lads but there were also positives to take from the day.

"It was a good work out and another stage in our build up to the new season.

"There were no fans there to see it but at least there is some normality back, we’re playing football matches. It’ll be even better when fans are allowed back.”

Matlock will now train on both Tuesday and Thursday before heading off for their second warm up game at Brighouse Town on Saturday. Again, the game must be played behind closed doors.

“We’ve got decisions to make over one or two of the trialists and we’ll do that in the next twenty four to forty eight hours” Phillips continued.

“We’ll be increasing the playing time for players, it’s time to move the bar up a little bit.”