The key takeaways from Shrewsbury Town’s win over Everton Under-21s.
Shrewsbury Town made it back-to-back pre-season victories in their first home friendly - here are some of the key talking points.
Josh Ruffels’ second-half header earned Salop a 1-0 win over Everton Under-21s at the Croud Meadow as preparations for the new League Two campaign continued.
Josh Ruffels celebrates after giving Shrewsbury Town the leadplaceholder image
Josh Ruffels celebrates after giving Shrewsbury Town the lead | © SalopPhoto
The victory also maintained Town’s impressive defensive record, with Gavin Cowan’s side keeping a fourth clean sheet in as many pre-season matches, although they were beaten on penalties by Radcliffe after a goalless draw earlier this month.
Here are the main takeaways from Tuesday night’s win.
Who impressed?
Arkell Jude-Boyd was one of Shrewsbury’s standout performers. The summer signing was a constant outlet on the right, using his pace and direct running to repeatedly trouble Everton’s defence.
He delivered several dangerous crosses into the box and was always willing to take on his full-back. One eye-catching moment saw him cut inside before curling a shot narrowly over the crossbar, earning warm applause from the home crowd.
Arkell Jude-Boyd of Shrewsbury Town against Everton Under-21splaceholder image
Arkell Jude-Boyd of Shrewsbury Town against Everton Under-21s | SalopPhoto
Academy graduate Isaac England also produced another encouraging display in midfield. He used the ball intelligently, switched play well and helped Town dictate possession during the opening period.
Will Gray was promising - as he was at the end of last season - after coming off the bench, while fellow youngster Isaac Lee looked composed in defence and comfortable in possession.
New striker Josh Davison’s work-rate was evident throughout. He pressed from the front, battled physically with defenders and provided a focal point in attack, although he was unable to keep one first-half effort down from close range.
Jay Turner-Cooke added fresh energy after the break and was heavily involved as Town created several opportunities to increase their lead.
Experienced midfielder Jack Price also impressed during his cameo, using the ball well and organising those around him, while youngsters Byron Pendleton and Jeval Thompson-McKenzie made positive impacts from the bench.
Formation taking shape
Town again stuck with a back three, with their wing-backs playing a key role at both ends of the pitch.
Jude-Boyd and Kevin Berkoe regularly pushed high to provide width, while Shrewsbury looked to switch play quickly from midfield to exploit the extra space in wide areas.
It is a system Cowan appears increasingly comfortable with as the new season approaches.
Goalkeeper battle
Neither goalkeeper was overworked, but both Will Brook and Sam Proctor produced encouraging displays.
Brook’s standout moment came shortly before half-time when he made an excellent save to keep out Harvey Foster’s goal-bound free-kick.
New Shrewsbury Town loanee Sam Proctorplaceholder image
New Shrewsbury Town loanee Sam Proctor | SalopPhoto
Proctor, making his home debut after joining on loan from Aston Villa, had little to do after the interval but looked assured when called upon, commanding his area confidently and dealing well with crosses.
Competition for the number one shirt is beginning to take shape.
Injury latest
Young forward Jay Snook was forced off early with a tight hamstring.
Luca Hoole also remained absent as he continues to recover from an ankle injury and is expected to be sidelined for another couple of weeks.
There was better news regarding George Lloyd, who completed pre-match running and ball work after suffering a knock during the Isle of Man.
Captaincy still under wraps
Cowan revealed a new club captain has been chosen but is keeping the identity under wraps for now.
Sam Stubbs wore the armband for the opening hour before Will Boyle took over following his introduction. Both centre-backs marshalled the defence well.