Boyce feeling fit after his first 90 minutes of pre-season

Summer signing Andrew Boyce is feeling in good shape after playing his first 90 minutes of pre-season in the 2-2 draw at Huddersfield Town U23s in a pre-season training game on Tuesday.

The 32-year-old scored a header, and also played a part in Liam Feeney's goal, playing an excellent ball through to Joe Nuttall before he unselfishly squared the ball to Feeney.

Boyce told Iron Player: "I thought it was a good, very competitive game. We'll take the 2-2 as it's minutes in the legs for the boys.

"It was tough as we've put the miles in during training and are all playing with fatigue from that, but that's what pre-season is about. It was hard towards the end and I felt like I couldn't kick a ball that far, but I'm glad it's in the bank.

"The next time I play 90 minutes, I'll hopefully find it a bit easier, so that's what it's about. I've enjoyed it, I've settled in well. Don't get me wrong, it's been really hard but that's what it's for. I don't think I've done an easy pre-season yet, but you reap the rewards in the season.

"I feel like I'm fitter at this stage now than what I'd usually be. I've dropped a little bit of weight and I feel better than at this stage last season, for example. I feel fitter for it.

"I want to score more goals from set-plays, so it was nice to get one on Tuesday."

Talking about Nuttall, Feeney and the squad in general, he added: "I wouldn't like to play against them every game. Joe's a big, strong lad and Feens is clever, can pass and finish. They're a good combination.

"We have some good lads in on trial who've done well, while we have a bit of experience and some young lads as well. I'm sure the gaffer knows what he's doing and will put a good squad together."

See much more from Andrew Boyce and Keith Hill on Iron Player.