Brunt on target in Stocksbridge win

Chris Brunt scored his third pre-season goal in two games as a young Owls side narrowly defeated local amateur side Stocksbridge Park Steels. The game was the first opportunity for fans to see new signings Graham Coughlan and Drissa Diallo in action for the Owls. Chris Adamson replaced David Lucas in goal, whilst Lee Bullen played his second full game in as many days. Trialist Anton Robinson got another run in midfield whilst Academy player Danny Reet partnered Barry Corr upfront.

The game had started slowly with neither side looking too dangerous early on. Coughlan's header after 15 minutes forced a good save from the Stocksbridge keeper, whilst Barry Corr's 30 yard effort deflected off the bar and over for a goal kick.

Half-time: Stocksbridge 0-0 Owls

John Hills came on for Diallo at half-time whilst Scottish trialist Mark Staunton came on for Corr, who had suffered a slight knock in the opening period. Hills and Staunton slotted into defence with Lee Bullen pushing upfront for Wednesday.

The only goal of the game came in the 57th minute after Bullen had won the visitors a free-kick on the edge of the box. Set-piece specialist Chris Brunt stepped up to send a low, curling shot past Hodgeson in the Stocksbridge goal. It was Brunt's third in two games after having bagged two in the 7-1 thumping of Sheffield FC at the start of the week.

As the home defence tired the Owls pressed on in search of more goals. Danny Reet was unlucky not to get his name on the scoresheet, after having also scored in the Sheffield FC game.

Early pre-season injuries appear to be hampering Paul Sturrock's plans with Barry Corr having suffered a dead leg and Drissa Diallo a sprained ankle in this match. Sturrock is hopeful of having Corr available next week, but former Ipswich man Diallo will be out for 10 days. Drew Talbot, Adam Proudlock and Patrick Collins are expected to be fit in time to travel to Scotland next week for the pre-season game with Partick Thistle, as well as the "Discovery Cup" involving Wolverhampton Wanderers, Dundee and Dundee United.

Wednesday's next pre-season encounter is away to League Two side Grimsby on Monday.

AnzOwls' verdict: A good opportunity for some of the younger lads to impress, but overall a fairly low key affair.