The victory is another positive step in the development of Gosport’s current young stars, who continue to impress, and press for the right to make the step up to the first team squad.

The last four seasons have produced twelve young players who have gone on to make their first team debuts, with the latest crop including Ethan Jones, Henry Searle and Jack Bagnall.

Under 18’s Manager Zak Sharp, along with his coaching team, can rightly be proud of the impressive stats that reflect a positive and successful journey for Gosport Borough’s development teams.

Played 103 games - Won 78 - Drawn 9 - Lost 16
Goals Scored 375 - Goals Conceded 105
Win Ratio 75%

‘When these stats got shared, it really put into perspective the work that’s gone in over the past four seasons. I’m incredibly proud of all the players and their commitment. The numbers are great, but the real success is seeing so many lads push on and make debuts for the first team and in other senior football.

It’s been an enjoyable journey. Starting with the U23’s then taking over the U18’s a few years ago, which has heavily involved Aaron and James from the start.

I’ve always been an advocate for giving young players opportunities or at least giving them a platform to be the best version of themselves. Every year we’ve had to rebuild with a different group of players but each time the group has come together, worked hard and created an environment that people wanted to be apart of.

I also want to mention the backing from our Chairman Iain, Dave, Mark, Glenn and the entire board. Their support and their interest in the U18s has played a huge role in everything we’ve been able to do and hopefully continue to do as a club.

We are in a very good place with a squad full of talented players. The target is and has always been to develop players for the future of Gosport Borough.’

Up The Boro

Zak Sharp