Hogg 'really pleased' with aspects of Cobblers' performance in Cambridge friendly
Chris Hogg said he was ‘really pleased’ with elements of his side’s performance during their 0-0 draw against Cambridge United in Tuesday’s pre-season friendly.
Town were the better side for most of the first half at the Abbey Stadium, producing some nice moves and creating a handful of half chances, before both teams missed good opportunities in the second 45.
Harvey Saunders saw one shot cleared off the line and another bounce fractionally wide of the far post, while Logan Briggs hit the crossbar. Gassan Ahadme twice went close for Cambridge but a competitive encounter ultimately ended goalless.
“It was another really good test for us,” said Hogg. “We knew the challenge Cambridge would provide and I thought it was a step up in intensity from our previous games.
“I was looking forward to this one because the style of game looked a lot more like a league game so it was pleasing from that point of view, and I thought the lads showed real courage and belief in the work we’ve done on the training pitch.
"We made a load of changes and tonight was about building boys up with minutes and making sure we are giving them what they need from a physical point of view. Everyone seems to have come through well again, which is always a priority in pre-season, and I thought we created some good moments.
“Fundamentally, we didn’t score a goal and we have to look at that, but in terms of positive signs and the things I’m asking of them, we got into really good areas with some good play and there were pleasing aspects of the performance.
“I really enjoyed it and I always enjoy coming to Cambridge. I thank our fans for coming down and it was really nice to see some of them on the far side to give the boys a cheer.”