St Johnstone manager Tommy Wright has declared the meeting with Manchester City a success despite losing to the English Premier League stars.
Saints held Pep Guardiola’s galacticos to 0-0 at half-time behind closed doors but lost three goals without reply in the second half.
That didn’t make it any less worthwhile for the Perth men, though, as they prepare to start their Premiership campaign at home to Aberdeen on Sunday.
Wright said: “It was a good experience for all of the players.
“It was nil-nil at half-time and City went on to win 3-0 but it was great for us and, preparation-wise, it will benefit the team for Sunday.
“We came through the game with no injuries but Keith Watson and Chris Millar both won’t be available for Aberdeen.
“Overall, our pre-season has been good and the Betfred Cup group campaign went well.
“We are now looking forward to getting back to league action.”
