Chester manager Phil Parkinson expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance following a goalless draw against a near full-strength Crewe Alexandra side in a pre-season friendly on Saturday. The match, held in Cheshire, marked the conclusion of Chester’s preparations ahead of the National League North campaign, which begins with an away fixture against Chorley.
Parkinson highlighted the players’ commitment to the tactical instructions given during pre-season, noting the overall positive performances and the opportunity to address minor issues before the league opener. “Crewe brought a strong squad today, but we coped well with the questions they posed,” he said, signaling confidence in his squad’s readiness. When asked about the starting lineup for the upcoming match at Chorley, Parkinson indicated that while one or two selection decisions remained, the core team was largely settled.
The game itself started with Crewe demonstrating early attacking intent. New signing Jake Griffin made several crucial blocks, denying opportunities for Chester’s Jack Lankester and Owen Lunt. Chester responded as Sam Reed came close to scoring twice in the first half, first seeing an angled shot cleared off the line by Crewe defender Mickey Demetriou, and moments later hitting a powerful 20-yard effort narrowly wide of the goal.
Both sides continued to create chances in a competitive first half, with Chester’s Connor Woods and Crewe’s Jack Lankester coming close to breaking the deadlock before halftime. The second period mirrored the first, featuring sustained pressure from both teams but no clear finishing.
Early in the second half, Crewe’s Reece Hutchinson nearly scored with a strong header, while Chester’s Jacob Hazel also forced an attempt just wide. The closest moment to a goal arrived in the 81st minute when Chester’s Dom McHale produced a skillful move, evoking comparisons to a ballroom dance performance, before unleashing a powerful shot from 25 yards that struck the post.
The game ended level, providing Chester with a solid platform to start their league season under Parkinson’s guidance. The manager’s post-match comments underscored a sense of optimism and readiness as his team prepares to face Chorley in their opening National League North fixture.