JOE Colbeck made his debut in Bradford Park Avenue's opening friendly – just over 24 hours after the club secured the services of the former Bradford City winger.

Colbeck began the game against Doncaster Rovers, while Scott Kerr – another close-season signing and former Bantam – was in the second-half line-up.

Both Avenue boss John Deacey and opposite number Paul Dickov used the friendly to get as many squad players as possible some game-time.

Following the 2-0 defeat, Avenue press officer Lewis Sale said: "It was a very encouraging start and John (Deacey) was very pleased with how things went.

"All of the new signings played. Joe looked bright and really sharp, considering it was his first game. He interacted well with the other lads. Nathan Turner, Scott, Bradley Barraclough and Paddy Miller all played.

"There were a number of trialists as well. One of them was Steve Mallory and he got 45 minutes, as did Kayden Jackson and Tom Morgan. Brad Dixon was in goal for the first half and Sam Hewitt, a centre back who many locals will know, did very well."

Morgan has not been unveiled as a new signing as yet, even though Avenue were the club mentioned on his departure from Farsley. The Evo-Stik League club released a statement announcing that Morgan had heading to Horsfall Stadium.

Deacey had also previously said that he had got Mallory back from Harrogate Town. However, he was listed as a trialist for Wednesday's friendly – as was Hewitt, who was with Brighouse Town last term.

Jackson also began locally, with Albion Sports. He was with them when he beat thousands of hopefuls nationwide to win a professional contract at Swindon Town. He spent much of last season loan in the Conference Premier.

Sale said: "I don't know the situation with many of the trialists we had with us but they all looked very capable and seemed to enjoy it. Matty James was also involved – he played the first half.

"The team in the first half played in our new home kit and in the second half the away kit, so our fans could have a good look at both of them.

"The replica shirts are available in the club shop and games like that against big Football League clubs are always well attended, so they really are vital for us in terms of revenue."