Turner Remains Positive Ahead Of Opening Game

Chris Turner is in bullish mood, as Pools ended their pre-season fixtures on the back of two successive wins, going into the season opener at MK Dons next Saturday.

The Pools team have bonded well in recent games and came away with two, 2-1 victories with the midfielder chipping in with goals. However Turner has a further injury worry, to deal with, Sam Collins is expected to miss the trip to the South after being replaced with a knee problem midway through the first-half.

''There was some good things to come out of the game here today and at Gateshead on Wednesday. We worked the ball well to wide areas; Leon got his goal today and Andy Monkhouse has got a couple in pre-season which bodes well'' Turner explained to the Official Website.

Turner is obviously disappointed to lose Sam Collins to injury, but has been along with Pools fans, delighted with the job that Gary Liddle has done at the back - and hasn't ruled out the ex Middlesbrough youngster playing a vital part at the back this season.

''It's disappointing that we lost Sam Collins to injury so early but I have to say that Gary Liddle has been absolutely outstanding back there.''

''He's been terrific in all three games he's played in defence and he's looking like being a real find for us'' Turner added.

There was also praise for trialist Colin Larkin, who scored the winner for Pools after he tapped in a scramble after James Brown's shot caused havoc between the Stags defence.

''I was also pleased to see Colin Larkin get his goal - he took up a very intelligent position to score the winner''

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