Hatters boss Graeme Jones said he was “delighted” with the victory over Basingstoke Town last night as his side begin to kick-on building up fitness for the new campaign.
Town won 7-2 at the Simplyhealth City Ground, with James Collins, Andrew Shinnie, Elliot Lee, Callum McManaman, Josh Neufville, Harry Cornick and Jake Jervis all grabbing a goal each.
Jones said: “I am delighted, because it was an exercise. We are trying to get them up to 90 minutes now. I was really, really satisfied because I thought it was difficult for the first 60 minutes – really warm and dry.
“The boys are used to playing on a slicker pitch shall we say, it’s normally watered and wet. But you have to find a way in football, because that is what the test is, I think we did. The second 60 was a different exercise all together, I was really pleased with the players’ attitudes.
“I think we should have a 100 per cent record from chances, that’s what we’re working towards! Generally, I was just over the moon, you always want to win and I make that a stipulation, but I am looking past that as well – it’s where we are physically and the most important thing for me is no injuries. A majority of the players got 60 minutes plus, so we are building nicely.
“Lloyd Jones and Matty Pearson got 90 at the weekend, obviously Ryan Tunnicliffe has got 90 tonight. There were some 75s out there, we need to look after Matty a little bit tonight. Sonny is just coming back from a little bit of tightness he felt in his hamstring. But everybody has come through well, so I am delighted.
“I am expecting Dan Potts to train on Thursday, so I am not too worried, as long as today has gone ok. Danny Hylton might be the beginning of next week, but again, nothing long-term. The brutality of pre-season takes it toll on one or two.”