Hyde boss Scott McNiven was pleased with the 3 – 0 friendly win at local rivals Stalybridge Celtic as goals from Callum Byrne, David Poole and Frank Atanga saw the Tigers win the Ray Stanley Memorial Shield.
Speaking to Luke Edwards after the match, Scott said:
I was more delighted with the fitness more than anything. All of our hard work on that side of things and the 3 hard weeks of training we have done seems to be bearing fruit.
The lads also put in the sort of performances that we want, so credit to them for their commitment and desire. We are working on new things and the lads are buying into what me and Gav want them to do, but most of all we are giving them the freedom to play.
At this stage of the season it’s all about getting prepared physically and mentally for the challenge ahead. We have we scouts watching Braintree already and have reports on them.
Scott also had praise for the Hyde fans, who created plenty of noise at Bower Fold:
The support was first class as well. It was brilliant to hear the fans singing from start to finish.
I know how much the games against Stalybridge mean to them and myself and Gavin really appreciate the support we have received since we took over the job.
