Manager Jason Ainsley was delighted to finally return to action after watching Moors narrowly defeat Newton Aycliffe on Tuesday evening.

Ainsley, heading into his 14th season in charge of the club, was happy to get pre-season underway, albeit under unique circumstances.

After the game, he said: “It was great to be back with the lads and it was brilliant to see a bit of football. Luckily the supporters were there to see it.

“Of course it is strange when you walk in with a mask on and you have to social distance, but that is the reality now. It is different and we have to accept that, but it’s just pleasing that we are all back out there.

“I looked at a team programme that was in our changing room and it was from the Hereford game back in March, and it’s crazy to think that’s the last time we kicked ball. It did show at times on the night.

“Credit to Newton Aycliffe as I thought they were very good, and it was evident that they have trained a little bit more than us. They moved the ball around very well, but the only thing they lacked in the first half was that finishing touch.

“They were able to get in countless times whether it was from good play or from our mistakes which we spoke about at half time.

“I thought the energy levels with the lads who came on at the break were better, and it was clear the system helped us a bit more in the second half with more bodies in the midfield.

“Frank came on up front alongside Glen and caused all sorts of problems for their defence. I am delighted with the workout and to play our first game in five months.”