Hayward felt that when his team was heading forward, stray passing led to his defence, who were supporting any attack well, being caught out.
North End played very direct on counter attack, catching City off-guard.
The first goal for the home side was a dubious penalty decision when goalkeeper Nic Hayward had clearly beaten the home striker to the ball.
Even the North End coach was somewhat surprised to win the decision, with none of his players appealing at the time.
For their part City got on, but played from behind their coach extremely pleased with the passion and want from his players to fight back twice to gain a valuable away point.
An unwanted disruption came before kick-off with key player James Oxtoby reinjuring a calf.
Hayward was pleased overall with contributions from his side, of which there were at least six new faces in the starting lineup.
More game time and fine-tuning on certain areas at training should see progression come quickly for more positive results.
Hayward did not want to make excuses but reminded supporters that with more than half a new squad, last season's expectations should be revisited.
Siew put in a worthy effort all match and was rewarded with a fortuitous late goal to gain a share of the points.
Teamed with new boy Shaan Stuart, they worked well together in defence as the match wore on.
Annabell looked short of an outing but grew into the game,
and when Hayward went searching late on in the second half, a change of formation looked to have some merit about it.
Work this week in training will look to focus on possession and decision-making, which itself will improve as the side plays more regular outings.
Results:
PN Marist 1 Redsox Manawatu 0; Palmerston North End 2 Wanganui City 2.
