John Coleman was content with last night's 1-1 draw with Preston North End at Leyland - and believes his squad is getting there.
New signing Colby Bishop got off the mark in a Stanley shirt with a header while it was a favourite from last season who caught the manager's eye.
"It was hard session and it was a good game, it was 90 minutes of hard work. We showed our organisational skills, the way we defended well as a team.
"Maybe we gave up too many chances in the first half but I was pleased the way we controlled the game for long periods in the second half.
"We defended as well as we can for their goal but it was a good header.
"I was pleased for Colby to get his goal, he gives us something different. We have missed having an aerial presence and hopefully we can use that to our advantage during the season.
"I though Callum Johnson was outstanding, I know he was linked with Preston last season but his ball for the goal was excellent and his overall play was very good.
"The new players are settling in although we have still a bit of work to do to get them used to our style of play."
Coleman is still formulating his team for the start of the new League One campaign, which kicks off against Lincoln a week on Saturday.
"There's still 10 days to go, a lot can happen, we have got a good squad, we showed that against Warrington on Monday and against Preston last night.
"I still think we need a couple of players, either loans or permanents. I would sooner have my own players but I haven't any loans at the moment so that gives me options."