Murray United's current shortage of youth players hasn't impacted the form of the senior side thus far.
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The Border outfit pushed top division NPL club Altona Magic all the way in a pre-season friendly at La Trobe on Saturday.
Altona's class eventually shone through in the 3-0 victory, but there was plenty of positives for Murray.
Experienced Murray defender Sean Pye said it was a good hit-out for the side and another step in the right direction under new coach Igor Srbinovski.
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"We played well in patches and created some good chances," Pye said.
"They were fitter than us as their pre-season is five weeks ahead due to their season starting earlier.
"They are a classy side from division one. We were trying a pressing tactic that is new for the team, but takes a lot of energy, especially for 90 minutes."
Murray heads to Shepparton next Saturday to take on regional rivals Goulburn Valley Suns.