Andy Butler was pleased with the approach of his side in Friday night’s win over a Leeds United development side.
The Belles head coach used the game as an opportunity to ensure players who had not featured much in earlier friendlies got plenty of time on the pitch, as well as try some out in unusual positions such as new arrivals Lucy Dunlop and Chloe Dean.
Butler said: “The two centre-backs who played did really well because they’re not really centre-backs, one’s a No.10 and one’s a centre midfielder.
“We’re adding good versatility and characters - they’re happy to play where needed, and it’s really good for them to learn different roles and see the match from a different perspective. They both did really well.”
The entire Belles playing squad were at the Club Doncaster Sports Village on Friday night, even with a number of them sitting out completely ahead of Sunday’s trip to Sheffield FC to conclude pre-season.
Butler added: “We could have put out two full sides, and it’s credit to the girls for their attitude and desire to come down. They have been brilliant since Bucco and myself came in, the desire to come down and get better every day is brilliant.
“Leeds provided a good test for us, they brought a young side but you can tell they have some good players. It was a good workout for our players who have not had as many minutes, and it was good to see them understanding the position-specific roles and relationships.”
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