Gaffer gives his thoughts on Saints friendly

Kevin Bond has spoken about the performance of his side against Southampton at the weekend and Darren Powell's sending off.

"I thought it was a good game. We gave away two bad goals, but apart from that I thought we did ok. I was pleased we got back on level terms after going behind early in the second half. We know where our deficiencies lie, but I thought the players equipped themselves really well. I'm never pleased to get beaten, but I was pleased with the performance.

"I was really disappointed Powell was sent off. I know the letter of the law, but it's ridiculous. I know the referee is under pressure apply the law, but I wish some of them would be strong enough to show some common sense. Nobody likes to see players sent off. I was disappointed to see it happen and I'm sure George is doubly disappointed.

"Jason [Pearce] can play left back or left side of centre back. He's played in all our games as Warren [Cummings] has had a bit of a setback and coped really well. Our experienced players were excellent. Telfs, Darren Anderton, Younger, Russell Perrett, all did well. Anderton was a class act and ran the show. He became stronger as the game went on. Paul Telfer only started training this week, played ninety minutes and never stopped running."