Micky Mellon takes encouragement from Oldham’s goalless draw at Dundee United

Micky Mellon takes encouragement from Oldham’s goalless draw at Dundee United

Micky Mellon insists there were plenty of positives to take as Oldham Athletic battled to a second consecutive goalless draw – this time away to Dundee United.

 

The Latics boss watched his side hold their own against last season’s Scottish Championship winners at Tannadice on Friday, continuing a solid pre-season run in which defensive organisation and work rate have been clear hallmarks.

 

Mellon, who is preparing his team for the challenges of the upcoming National League campaign, praised the discipline and application of his players following a well-contested friendly against Jim Goodwin’s newly promoted Dundee United side.

 

“It was another good test for us,” said Mellon. “They’re a strong outfit and have just come off the back of a promotion season, so we knew it would be a tough ask. But the lads showed great attitude, stuck to their jobs, and we leave here with plenty of encouragement.”

 

Friday’s draw followed a 0-0 stalemate at Chorley earlier in the week — a game in which Oldham also showed glimpses of resilience. And while Mellon’s side have yet to score in their two latest outings, the manager stressed that defensive solidity has been a key focus of pre-season preparations.

 

“We’re still bedding in some ideas and building those relationships on the pitch, particularly at the back,” he added. “Two clean sheets in tough away games is never a bad thing at this stage of pre-season. Of course, we want to add goals to that, and that’ll come.”

 

Mellon admitted that the attacking department remains a work in progress, with trialists and new signings still settling in. But he believes the foundations being laid now will stand his side in good stead when competitive action begins.

 

“There are things we’re still fine-tuning,” he said. “We’ve had some new lads come in and others still getting up to speed. That’s what these games are for — finding combinations, sharpening up, and making sure everyone understands what’s expected.”

 

Oldham created several chances against Dundee United, particularly in the second half, with James Norwood and Kurt Willoughby both going close. At the other end, keeper Mathew Hudson again impressed with a confident display between the sticks.

 

“We had a couple of moments where, on another day, we might have nicked a goal,” Mellon reflected. “But I’m pleased with how we stayed compact, competed, and tried to play our football when the opportunity was there.”

 

With just a fortnight remaining until the National League season kicks off, Oldham’s pre-season schedule continues next week with a home fixture against Fleetwood Town. Mellon expects further improvement as the group gels.

 

“The attitude’s been spot on,” he said. “Now it’s about maintaining that and adding layers to our performances. The boys are buying into what we’re asking of them, and I’m confident we’ll get stronger.”

 

Mellon will be hoping his side’s early defensive resilience can form the bedrock for a positive start when the competitive action gets underway.

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