City boss Peter Taylor is glad it was not all smooth sailing for his side in their final challenge of pre-season.

Despite winning their derby clash with Bradford Park Avenue 4-0, there were a few shaky moments along the way.

Avenue twice went close to taking the lead as the hosts made a slow start in their first and only home friendly and put up a spirited challenge throughout.

“Good friendlies are when you get some negative things you can put right,” said Taylor.

“We started poorly and Avenue should’ve scored with a really good move early doors. But overall, over the 90 minutes, there were a lot more pluses.”

A major positive for Taylor were the returns of summer signing Tommy Doherty and targetman James Hanson, both playing 45 minutes after returning from injury.

The pair may still struggle to reach match fitness in time for Saturday’s trip to Shrewsbury but City are coming ever closer to having a full squad available.

“That’s Doc (Doherty) 50 per cent fit, so I think our supporters will really like what he can bring to us,” said Taylor.

“I just hope there’s no reaction – same as James Hanson. James wanted to play 45 and it’s good he’s got that under his belt.

“We looked a strong squad. All of a sudden the injuries have got better, which is good news for us.”

The Valley Parade pitch also stood up to scrutiny in its first match since being completely relaid.

Taylor said: “We’re encouraging them to play so you do need a half-decent surface. Right now it looks all right and the players enjoyed playing on it.”