MARK Bower thinks his side need to be more vocal after witnessing them edge out a 2-1 win over lower league opposition Silsden in their opening outing in pre-season.

Bower started with a side full of established first team names before making wholesale changes for the second period.

The Bradford boss used his captain as an example and believes to grow, his players need to be louder.

He said: "We spoke about it at half time and full time, you noticed how the more experienced ones demand the ball and pull people about.

"We have got to get that more from everyone.

"We had a couple of instances in the final third when we felt a vocal presence would have certainly helped the team.

"It's an aspect of the game that people don’t appreciate enough.

"You see Nicky Clee dictating the game and a lot of that comes from his voice, and the younger players need to learn from that."

With Horsfall not ready yet, the Cobbydalers, who are three leagues below Avenue, saved the day by hosting the friendly.

Something Bower is pleased about as it gave him the chance to see a number of trialists in action.

He added: "We had to get something so I am really thankful of Danny Forest (Silsden manager) for stepping in.

"I am not too fussed about the result it was more about getting some minutes into the players legs.

"The lads (trialists) have come in and they don’t really know anyone. The training they have been doing has been non-contact. You need to see players in different situations.

"In the second half of pre season games it often becomes disjointed with subs rolling on and off, and minor injuries, so it is hard to get a flow of rhythm which you get more in first halves.

"We have got a game on Tuesday (against Campion), train Thursday and another game Saturday where we can have a further look at them."

Bower was impressed by youngster Jamie Lyons' goal-scoring performance, but still thinks his team are lacking in the final third.

He said: "In his (Lyons) 15-20 minutes he showed what he is about. He has got a great left foot on him, coming inside and he is a cool finisher.

"He has filled out a little bit as well over lockdown which is going to be helpful to him in the positions he plays.

"It is our first game so in that final third you are still looking to fine tune.

"The front three (Lewis Knight, Oli Johnson and Brad Dockerty) looked ok but we are looking to add some strength in-depth in that department.

"That final ball and decision making could have been better, but, as we train more in pre-season, I am sure they will improve."