Monday's friendly against Stockport County brought a good win for Avenue but it had mixed results off the field.

Club captain Steve Connors picked up an injury and Avenue did not get the player they wanted on loan from the Coca-Cola League One outfit but they did get time on the pitch that could yet prove vital.

With two of their last three games suffering postponements, the friendly was only Avenue's second game this year. Training sessions are good but they are no substitute for playing when it comes to match fitness.

"I'm delighted the game was on and we played very well in what I thought was a very worthwhile exercise," said Horsfall boss Benny Phillips.

"We had a lot of work done on the pitch before the game and I don't suppose we helped that by playing on it. The reason why that work was done was primarily to ensure our league games went ahead but it was necessary that we got some match practice.

"It gave the players a really good workout, as they were tested against a group of young professionals. It means they go into today's game having played more than just the once since Christmas."

Part of the reason for the friendly being arranged was to strengthen links between Avenue and Stockport. Phillips already has many contacts at the club and had hoped to sign at least one of their youngsters on loan for the second half of the season.

"We didn't get the player we wanted; in fact, we have had a couple of knock-backs regarding loan deals," said Phillips.

"Football League clubs run on small squads these days and unless they have everyone fit and free of suspension then they are reluctant to let people out.

"We have the option to sign players on permanent transfers, like we did with Paul Stoneman, but sometimes you don't want that. Sometimes you just need cover for a certain position while players are coming back from injury.

"There will be movement over the next fortnight or so while the lower League and Conference clubs are operating in the transfer window. Some of those players will become available to clubs at our level.

"I still want to bring one or two in but they have to be right for us. We are challenging for promotion, we are not mid-table, so anyone who joins us will have to be of a certain quality.

"I will not add to the numbers just for the sake of it and I will not allow the balance of the squad to be affected.

"While I want to improve the squad, we have a great dressing room as it is and I don't want new players upsetting that. Paul has come in and fitted in brilliantly - but just look at the experience he has had."

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