Tigers boss excited for new season after Stags friendly

Though disappointed to lose against their League Two neighbours Shaw was happy with the way Tigers performed in Saturday’s pre-season friendly.

He said: “I’m disappointed to lose, as I am disappointed to lose any game but I’ve got to be realistic when it comes to the opposition that we played. That’ll probably be the same team that goes out against Newport County next Saturday.

“It was a very good test. It was very good for the home supporters and my players to play against opposition like that. I thought our organisation was very good. We gave them some questions to answer. I’m really happy.

“All the players got the right kind of minutes, that put that type of effort I want to see throughout the season and I was really pleased with the performances.”

Stags enjoyed the majority of possession but were unable to find a way through Worksop’s defence during the opening 45 minutes at Sandy Lane.

“I think you’ve got to give them the ball,” said Shaw. “When you play against sides in pre-season that are going to be taking chances on the ball, it was a case of ‘can we provide them a test’ and I didn’t think they hurt us that much.

“They hit the bar and had a chance from outside the box that Kendo (Jon Kennedy) had to save but they never got through us. I think the same could be said for the second half. We’ve conceded two poor goals from set pieces and one from when they got round the back of us.

“I’m really pleased with my group to perform like that against a professional club. We’re missing players today that will probably play next week. Adam Murray has got some really good players and I’m sure they’ll do well in the season ahead.”

And added: “I’m really looking forward to next week now and getting started when it really matters.”