Worksop Town boss happy with state of squad ahead of National League North opener at Darlington

The Tigers wrapped up pre-season at the weekend with a solid 3-1 win against a young Sheffield United XI at the KC Sofas Stadium.

It was a win which left the Town chief content with the current state of his squad.

“It was a good performance, not just the starting eleven but the subs as well, and I think we're in a good place,” he said.

“There's a good feeling and a lot of confidence. At times I thought we were excellent and kept the ball really well.

“We look fit and sharp, there's no doubt about it. The players have been tested to the max and all the health and distance things that we measure is up to here it needs to be.

“I am really pleased with it, it’s given me a few headaches for next week. I think we have got the recruitment bang on and have a squad of 16-18 that I am really looking forward to working with and helping them develop.

“We have to build on it and be ready to repeat what we have done today next week.

Aleks Starcenko fired an early effort over the bar before Liam Waldock shot at the keeper as Worksop started well.

The biggest chance of the game so far fell kindly for Oli Greaves as the Sheffield United goalkeeper gave the ball away cheaply just outside the six-yard box, but his cushioned shot hit the cross bar.

The Tigers first half performance was rewarded when Oli Greaves won a penalty on the stroke of half-time, which was comfortably converted by Waldock.

The Tigers extended their lead after the break when Starcenko slotted home after Mason O’Malley had hit the upright.

The visitors did respond ten minutes later when Bailey Miller scored to make it 2-1 with a rebounded effort which hit the bar and went over the line.

Any chance of a comeback was short lived for the Blades when Josh Wilde headed home in the 74th minute.