Goalkeeper Mark Oxley has admitted the side are keen to cap off a hard week’s work with a positive performance in today’s trip to Darlington.
The Town stopper believes a victory can build confidence ahead of our league opener against Doncaster next month.
He said: “Of course the primary aim of pre-season is to get fitness and minutes into the legs. However, if you can pick up some wins along the way then that undoubtedly breeds confidence.
“It would be great if we can go there and put on a good performance in front of our travelling fans. We have had two weeks to integrate as a group and work together so hopefully we can go and do that.”
As the lads returned from St Andrews on Thursday, the 32-year-old is pleased with how the group has integrated in the opening two weeks of pre-season.
“It’s been a great way to prepare, we got a closer look at the new signings and all of the young lads who are making the step up. They have all integrated with the group well and we have managed to get a lot of work done in a short space of time so it’s definitely been beneficial.
“It was a long break but it’s testament to the lads because we have all come back in great shape. I don’t think there has been anything thrown at us which we have been unable to do. Everyone is looking strong and battling away to start the season.”
With the club adding Lewis Thomas to the goalkeeping ranks, Oxley is looking forward to the competition for places.
“He has come here to play like anyone coming in. I know I have to be on it during every training session, he is right at my heels if not. Coming in from Burnley, he hasn’t been at that level for no reason.
“First and foremost though, he is a great lad, he trained with us towards the end of last season and did really well so that competition for places right across the board can only stand us in good stead.”
Town’s number 1 has revealed the belief among the squad is high as the club looks to kick-on from a strong end to the previous campaign.
“It was probably the longest I have been out the team last season. It was a different challenge, it’s going to be a different challenge again this year but that helps set high levels which we want to take into the season.
“We finished last year really well, we want to be kicking on again this season. There is a shared belief from the lads who were here last year and the new lads that we can kick on and not be looking over our shoulders again.”