Fleetwood Town kicked off their 2026 pre-season campaign with a commanding 2-0 victory over National League North side Chester FC at Highbury Stadium on July 14. The match, part of the International Club Friendly series, gave manager Charlie Adam valuable insight into his squad’s fitness and tactical shape ahead of the new League Two season.

Match Overview

Played under the floodlights in Fleetwood, the contest was a typical pre-season affair – high energy, frequent substitutions, and a focus on sharpness rather than relentless intensity. Fleetwood dominated possession from the first whistle, pressing high and forcing Chester into defensive errors. The Cod Army’s first goal arrived midway through the first half, when a well-worked corner routine was headed home by centre-back Ryan Graydon, giving the hosts a deserved lead. Chester struggled to create clear chances, with Fleetwood’s backline, marshalled by experienced defender Ben Heneghan, looking solid throughout.

Key Moments

• 25' – Goal: Fleetwood opened the scoring when a corner from the right was met powerfully by Ryan Graydon, who glanced his header into the far corner.
• 62' – Goal: Substitute forward Promise Omochere doubled the lead, latching onto a through ball from midfield and calmly slotting past the Chester goalkeeper.
• 78' – Miss: Chester’s best chance came when a free kick was headed wide from close range, summing up their afternoon in front of goal.

Tactical and Standout Performances

Fleetwood lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with new signings integrating well. Midfielder Liam Shaw controlled the tempo, completing over 90% of his passes, while full-back Tommy Watson provided width and energy down the left flank. Chester, playing a 3-5-2, found it difficult to break through Fleetwood’s structured press. Their midfield trio was overrun, particularly after the half-time changes. The clean sheet will please Adam, who is aiming for a more resilient defensive unit this season.

Season Impact

For Fleetwood, this friendly serves as a confidence booster after a disappointing 2025–26 League Two campaign that saw them finish 16th. They face a series of friendlies against higher-division opponents before the season opener in August. Chester, who compete in the sixth tier, will take positives from the workout despite the result, as they prepare for their own league campaign.

Fleetwood Town next face a friendly against Blackburn Rovers on July 18, while Chester FC host Warrington Rylands three days later.