Gavin Cowan proud of AFC Telford charges despite pre-season defeat

Cowan's National League North side put in a lot of hard yards against Steve Bruce's Championship outfit.

The gulf in quality told in the end, though, as Jonathan Kodjia struck twice and set up Conor Hourihane to complete the scoring at the New Bucks Head.

"It was a brilliant workout for us. Steve Bruce was really complimentary after the game, saying how well he thought we applied ourselves," said Cowan

"It was a good workout for us and I got to learn a lot about the players.

"No injures either, so it's another positive day for us."

The game doubled up as a Bucks open day, with various activities and stalls around the ground beforehand.

Cowan added: "It's always difficult from a team perspective as it becomes a bit like an exhibition game.

"But it has to be done. If we're going to achieve anything this year, the supporters and the community will be helping us do that.

"We want to keep linking in with the community and for them to be a part of it - so when we are successful, they feel a part of that success."