Spireites: ‘Lads have worked hard for draw,’ says Chesterfield’s Leam Richardson

Gary Roberts’ curling effort from the edge of the area 10 minutes from time cancelled out Matt Derbyshire’s opener for the visitors in an action-packed pre-season friendly at the Proact Stadium.

And Richardson said the players worked hard to earn a draw against the Championship side.

He said: “We’ve made a good account of ourselves. I think the lads have worked very hard and got some minutes into their legs.

“I’ve been in teams and at clubs where we’ve had very good pre-seasons and struggled through the season.

“What you want out of it is to get fit, get strong, get sharp and create a good environment and a professionalism about yourself.

“We want to create good habits and if you get that and constantly strive towards that through the season then I think you’ll be okay.”

And he reserved special praise for Chesterfield’s goal scorer, Roberts.

“It’s no secret he’s got ability and hopefully he’ll be a good player for us and take us where we want to be,” he added.

Several trialists were on show with many others anticipated to play against Belper tomorrow night ahead of the trip to Southport on Saturday.

One of those currently on trial, Matty Brown, has impressed during his time at the club.

Richardson said: “He’s not signed yet. We’ve started talks with Matty, will anything come of it? I don’t know.”

The Spireites’ interest in long term target Ryan Cresswell looks to have cooled after their latest offer for the Southend United defender was rejected.

While Nathan Smith is expected to start full training on Thursday and could be available for the Southport friendly.