Blog: Testing times for Shrewsbury Town

This is Graham Turner's first rough spell as Town chief and he'll be learning about his players quicker than ever - who can rise to the challenge and who is buckling under the pressure.

Last night's defeat to neighbours Crewe in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy was a fair outcome. The first half showing was poor; we were outplayed and outworked.

Crewe's attacking game and movement off the ball put ours to shame - they were committing bodies forward and causing us all kinds of problems. Our attacking game wasn't helped by only having Marvin Morgan playing alone upfront, having no joy or service.

The only positive from last night was Asa Hall, who came off the bench and changed the game. He showed more in ten minutes than any of the other Salop players did all game. He got himself a goal and set up a chance for John Taylor, who was only denied an equaliser by a great save from the Crewe keeper.

With Town only scoring one goal in the last four games, it's an area that everyone is aware needs improving. This isn't going to improve when you start a game with only one recognised sticker in Morgan and having Ryan Doble sat on the bench. There was no Tom Bradshaw in the squad again - if he's not being picked in the squad he might as well be loaned out to get some game time and experience.

Turner has said there is the finical backing in place if the right player comes along, which is music to the ears of the fans. I don't think we are too far away from being a decent League One side - a quality striker and midfielder would prove to be a significant difference.

What better game to get back on track than a local derby at home to Walsall? It's going to be a tough game though- they have had a great start to the season.

Just to sign off does has anyone any idea what has happened to Reuben Hazell? After making his first start back from injury away at Stevenage, where he played exceptionally, he played away at Notts County and hasn't been involved since. . .