Pompey new boys impress in pre-season opener

Cook was pleased with the mark made by Milan Lalkovic and Danny Rose against Sligo Rovers last night.

The visitors drew 3-3 at The Showgrounds in their first warm-up game ahead of the new campaign.

That came after they had raced into a 3-0 lead at the break, however, in the testimonial for Gavin Peers.

Pompey looked rocky at the back as Sligo introduced their first team after the restart.

And they capitulated as they gave away three goals to Cook’s former club.

Cook was accentuating the positives, however, at this formative stage of pre-season.

And the effort of new arrivals Lalkovic and Rose were two of the plus points.

Cook said: ‘It’s nice for one or two of the lads to come in.

‘I thought Milan Lalkovic was good and showed his class – Danny Rose showed what he can do in the second half, too.

‘The new lads gave the supporters a glimpse of what they will bring to the club.

‘Kyle Bennett also had a few moments but it’s a long road.’

Pompey have seen in previous campaigns how pre-season results have little bearing on what happens when the competitive actions gets underway.

Cook highlighted the focus has to be on building fitness at this stage.

The next game to focus on is the trip to Bohemians on Saturday.

But Cook knows it’s ultimately about being ready for the League Two curtain-raiser against Carlisle on August 6.

He said: ‘It’s about working and improving.

‘The message would have been the same if we’d won well or if we’d played like we did in the second half.’

– JORDAN CROSS