Midfielder Rashid Yussuff and strikers Brendan Kiernan and Jason Prior all played in a midweek reserve match after lengthy spells on the sidelines.
Yussuff has been out for a month with a hip infection, Kiernan has not played since September due to an ankle injury and Prior was making his return after eight months out following a broken leg.
"Jason did very well when he was on. We knew he would be rusty, but he showed good quality," said Ardley. "I am really pleased with Jason because no matter how hard you work on the training field, you need a match to replicate what you are going to need in a game.
"He was blowing a bit in the first half but that is to be expected. He showed some really good quality and he will be a good addition if we can keep him fit.
"I thought Brendan was very lively when he came on. I only planned on giving him 30 minutes, but he has ended up playing for an hour, which was good.
"Toks (Yussuff) was great in midfield too and these are good positives because players have put themselves in contention for the squad during the Christmas period."
