Russell Slade insisted there were positive steps forward for his Leyton Orient side despite seeing them fall to a 1-0 defeat at Ebbsfleet United in their second pre-season friendly.

The O’s were on top in the opening period but were unable to get themselves in front, with Kevin Lisbie, Dean Cox and Jimmy Smith all going close.

Victory was secured when Nathan Elder struck in the second half for the home side and although Orient were unable to make it back-to-back wins in their warm-up campaign, Slade felt forward strides had been made.

Scott Cuthbert returned to action following a spell on the sidelines and he was joined in the heart of defence by new signing Nathan Clarke, with the duo striking up an impressive understanding in their first outing together.

Slade also pointed to the example of former Bournemouth defender Mathieu Baudry, who stepped up to play in midfield just ahead of his more natural position.

And while the O’s were unable to get themselves a goal, the manager stressed there was more to the match than the result.

He explained: “Obviously it is all about the workout, getting players time on the pitch and getting that fitness.

“I thought we were really, really solid in the first half. We should have been a couple of goals in front in all fairness.

“I think if we had shown maybe a tad more quality in the final third I think we would have been comfortable at half time. We reduced them to just half a chance I think in the entire first half so I was very, very pleased with that.”

He continued: “I am looking at different things. I am looking at fitness and I am looking at understanding.

“It is a new team and there are new players coming into the team so they need to show greater understanding and appreciation. I saw that today, particularly in the first period.”