City once again impressed in last night's friendly against English League 2 side Accrington Stanley.

With Walker, Ward and Callaghan definately out of the opening game against Queens Park, Michael O'Neill will be short of options for the centre of defence, with the only other natural centre half being Chris Hughes, who is only 18 years of age. However, Hughes has been of City's best players in the pre-season matches so far.

O'Neill decided to put Ward, Walker and Callaghan on the bench and let the players who will most likely start against Queens Park get some match fitness under their belts.

The visitors opened the game strongly, with Leighton McGivern causing plenty of problems upfront.

Chris McLuskey was handed a second start and he had to be quick off his line to save at the feet of Mullin.

However, minutes later McLuskey was beaten when Leighton McGivern beat the offside trap and his shot crashed against the underside of the bar and the ball was eventually cleared to safety.

Then came the talking point of the game. A cross from the left hand side was headed towards goal by Paul Mullin, and as the ball looked to be sailing into the far corner, David White palmed the ball off the line.

The big central defender got a straight red for his troubles, a little harsh considering it was only a friendly. John Miles stepped up to take the spot kick but Chris McLuskey guessed the right way and the penalty was well saved.

Shortly after the penalty Paddy Connolly was replaced by Scott Walker to fill the gap in defence, and Walker went on to have a good game.

City came close when Robbie Williams missed a clearance and Iain Russell latched on to the loose ball but his shot just went past the post.

In the second half, despite playing with only 10 men, City grew in confidence and were on top for most of the second half.

With Scott Walker constantly pushing forward in aid of the City attackers, both Kevin Byers and Stuart Callaghan had shots saved as City began to pile on the pressure.

New signing Calum Smith then did well to control an awkward pass before sliding the ball just wide of the target.

Most of Accrington's rare attacks fizzled out on the edge of the box and when they did get past the City defence, McLuskey was always quick off his line to clear any danger.

Overall, a good performance from City against their full time opponents. Michael O'Neill stated before the game that he expected Accrington to be of at least the quality of the top 1st division/bottom of the Premier League sides, so this has to be taken as a very positive result.

Next up for City is 1st division side St Johnstone at Glebe Park this Saturday. This is the last pre-season friendly and admission prices are £8 for adults and £4 for concession.

The Saints narrowly missed on promotion last season and Owen Coyle has strengthened the squad greatly for another crack at the Championship.

Brechin:- McLuskey, R Walker, Murie, Hughes (Ward 46), White, Janczyk, Byers (Geddes 75), Nelson (King 46), Connolly (S Walker 30), Russell (S Callaghan 65), D Smith (C Smith 65). Subs not used:- Nelson

Accrington:- Dunbavin (Fearon 46), Cavanagh, Richardson (Branch 83), Williams, Roberts, Proctor, Boco (Whalley 46), Brown, McGivern (D'Sane 66), Mullin (McEvilly 66), Miles. Subs not used:- Edwards.

Referee:- Willie Hornby

Attendance:- 279