Getafe test shows Preston North End progress says former Liverpool man Ben Woodburn

North End started the game on the front foot and scored the opening goal through Ryan Ledson after just two minutes. Gaston Alvarez Soza scored twice to turn the game on its head in the second half.

Woodburn started the game and played 70 minutes, in a slightly different role, in behind the striker alongside Daniel Johnson as two no.10s.

The Welshman thought the La Liga side were the right sort of opposition for PNE, who played in 30 degree heat.

He said: “It was tough conditions but it was enjoyable and it was good to get minutes into the legs.

"I think we did well throughout the game to be honest, it was going to get to that point where we were going to tire the way we were pressing.

"I think a few dodgy refereeing decisions killed us but it was a good game, good fun. Getafe are a good team, it was a good test for us.

"It shows how our pre-season has been and where we're at at the minute. Hopefully we can take it into the season and have a strong start.”

Woodburn was speaking for the first time since signing a one-year-deal with the Lilywhites, playing against Bamber Bridge at the start of the month as a trialist.

The support and belief from manager Ryan Lowe played a big part in the move.

He said: “I've really enjoyed it so far, the boys and the staff have made it really easy for me to settle in.

"There's good team morale and it's been enjoyable these last few weeks, tough, but really enjoyable.

"The manager had wanted me before at a few other clubs beforehand and it had never really worked.

"I was out of contract and I think it worked for both parties - me training, really, just to show what I could do and if it worked for both sides were going to do it.

"I enjoy my time, I believe in the way he plays and he obviously believes in me to give me a contract. I'm thankful for that and excited to keep going now and kick on.”