Under 18’s Manager Zak Sharp reflects on last night’s result

‘Firstly, we really appreciate AFC Wimbledon coming down midweek and playing us. We wish them all the very best for the rest of the season.

I know I’ve said this a lot but I’m extremely proud of the lads tonight. To do what they did at times in long spells against a strong academy side, is outstanding. We actually come away a little bit frustrated that we haven’t won the game.

Another excellent crowd, I think over 150 people in attendance for an U18s game, which is actually probably more than most step 5 clubs. These sort of nights will help develop these players even further going forward.

The game started very fast and I think a shock to the system for all of us as we aren’t used to that quality. Once we settled and believed in our style and ability we started to more than hold our own and for most of the first half we looked like the academy side. The game was very even throughout and towards the end really could’ve gone either way. It’s always gutting conceding last minute especially when it’s a penalty and we’ve worked so hard.

I can’t fault the lads enough for their performance, efforts and commitment. It’s another game and performance that puts us as a team and club on the map as a side that can more than hold their own against football league set ups.’

Up The Boro
Zak Sharp