Grayson happy with Stoke work out

Preston North End boss Simon Grayson was satisfied with the work out his players got in the draw with Stoke City at Deepdale.
Simon Grayson (right) shakes hands with Stoke manager Mark HughesSimon Grayson (right) shakes hands with Stoke manager Mark Hughes
Simon Grayson (right) shakes hands with Stoke manager Mark Hughes

Daniel Johnson gave North End an early lead before Mame Diouf equalised for the Potters in the second half.

Grayson said: “The game was played at a good tempo by both teams.

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“From our point of view we were tested at times but we were organised and disciplined – we are going to have to be like that this year in the Championship.

PNE celebrate Daniel Johnon's goalPNE celebrate Daniel Johnon's goal
PNE celebrate Daniel Johnon's goal

“We also kept the ball well, got it forward and worked Jack Butland on a few occasions.

“Overall it was a good work out in many different aspects.”

North End will have taken plenty out of the game in terms of their work rate, with Stoke a powerful side who at times moved the ball well on a hot afternoon.

“When you look at modern day Premier League players, they are all fine athletes who can carry the ball, run with, are physically strong and ask questions of you without the ball too,” Grayson said.

PNE celebrate Daniel Johnon's goalPNE celebrate Daniel Johnon's goal
PNE celebrate Daniel Johnon's goal
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“That is why you want to play a game against Premier League opposition to test your team for the coming weeks and months ahead.

“For our goal, it was good play by Joe Garner to start with, he held the ball up well and brought Chris Humphrey into play.

“Chris did what he does best, carrying the ball up the pitch and he found a nice pass to Ben Pringle.

“Prings set it up for DJ who scored with a slight deflection on the shot.

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“We have seen DJ do that many a times on that left foot of his.

“It was nice to get the first goal and we created other opportunities.

“Their goal was disappointing to concede although generally I thought we defended well.

“Anders Lindegaard had a couple of shots to save but so did Butland for Stoke.

“We got some good work into a lot of the squad which was pleasing.”