Lee Bradbury: Hawks will be better for Pompey defeat

His Hawks were well beaten by a slick, professional outfit.

But Bradbury believes it will have done them a lot of good.

‘It is probably the best Pompey team we have faced since I have been here,’ said the Westleigh Park boss.

‘They cut us open at will at times.

‘The goal Carl Baker scored from 35 yards before half-time was a great strike – but we felt one of their others was offside.

‘We have learnt a lot about our defensive shape and at times we tried to replicate how they play.

‘Our wingers were playing as full-backs at times because they were pushing so high up the pitch.

‘They pushed us right back and we didn’t have the quality to get out against them.

‘Pompey were very fit and energetic.

‘We competed well in the first half but made a lot of changes in the second period.

‘There were four or five teenagers out there but you have to blood the youngsters some time.

‘The result is not important it is more about adding to our experience.’

There was a proud moment for Bradbury five minutes from the end when Pompey introduced his son, Harvey, as a late substitute.

Bradbury also used the occasion to unveil his latest signing, Wes Fogden, to the fans.

Fogden has penned a two-year deal after leaving League Two Yeovil Town.

It is the midfielder’s second spell at Westleigh Park.

He was a firm favourite with the fans the last time he was here.

And Bradbury is delighted to have the 28-year-old back on board.

‘Wes is obviously a player I like because I brought him from here to Bournemouth earlier in his career,’ he said.

‘He gives you that infectious energy and is a great person to have around.

‘I love his energy and attitude towards the game.

‘When he hasn’t got the ball he works hard and harasses people and on the ball he will attack defenders.

‘He has got a great touch and he will be a really good signing for us.

‘We are going to need fighters in the Ryman premier this season and he is certainly that.

‘He is capable of doing a job anywhere for us.

‘It will be a couple of weeks before he recovers from his injury but then I am looking forward to getting him in.’

The Hawks’ next friendly is against Eastbourne Borough at Westleigh Park on Saturday (3pm).