Gaffer reflects on Checkatrade Trophy tie
Shrewsbury Town welcomed Manchester City’s Under 21 squad to the Montgomery Waters Meadow for the first Checkatrade Trophy group stage game.
City’s young squad managed to level the score in injury time, forcing the tie to head for penalties. Askey’s men grabbed the extra point by winning the shootout.
Askey was pleased his side managed to get through the fixture despite the late equaliser.
“I thought it was a good night considering that we made so many changes,” the gaffer said. “It was a good workout for us.
“It’s nice that we ended up with the two points. We should have seen it out, if we didn’t have to make those substitutions then we probably would have done.
“One or two were feeling a little bit tight. Hamstrings and so on, we couldn’t take the risk with having a game on Saturday.
“Overall, I think we did well. The lads worked hard and it was quite a good game to watch. Different than most Saturdays, but it was enjoyable.”
Askey was pleased to see the team perform well, despite making a number of changes, including Ryan Barnett.
“I thought there were a lot of good performances,” the Town boss said. “It’s nice to be able to make eight changes and still be able to compete.
“Not only did we compete, we should have won the game as well.
“I think it’s great in this competition where players such as Barnett can get a game and show what they can do.
“I thought he looked as good as anyone on the park. When you’re playing against Man City’s under 21’s and have one of your own looking as good as anyone on the park, it’s not bad.”
Town will now prepare for the visit of Bristol Rovers, who travel to the Montgomery Waters Meadow next Saturday.