AN intensive pre-season build up to the Uefa Cup ties with Man City started with a 10 goal thrashing of Mid Cheshire leaguers, Malpas F C.
Taking a leaf out of the Sven-Goran Eriksson management book, boss Ken McKenna substituted the whole of his side at the interval, with the exception of new boy Simon Davies, who played until the 72nd minute.
This gave a run out to the whole of the squad, apart from Steve Evans, who is still recovering from a hernia operation, plus several triallists.
Although outclassed and chasing shadows for much of the game, to their credit the visitors tried to play football when they were on the ball, to provide Saints with a decent early workout.
After 20 minutes of limbering up, Saints started the goal fest through Mike Wilde.
Four up at the break, the substitutes added six more in the second half.
Apart from new signing, Simon Davies, who impressed throughout, Saints introduced several triallists, including Jimmy Aggrey (pictured) - who has been released by Yeovil Town.
Former Swansea striker, Jamie Wood, played the second half and scored in the final minutes. A Cayman Islands international, he started his career as a trainee with Manchester United.
Injured last season, he was released on a free transfer by the Swans.
Also on show were Alan Delahunty, who has played for Bangor, Greenock Morton and two Finnish clubs, Lee Chaffey (released by Ipswich Town), plus Wrexham duo Alex Stacey and Gareth Sadlow.
Of the new faces, Jimmy Aggrey gave a sterling display in central midfield on a very hot day and looks ready-made cover for Steve Evans, who may not be fit for the start of the new campaign.

Above: Saints' squad pictured before the match in the new green and white strip.