Graham Mitchell's under-18 side could count themselves very unlucky to be defeated by a stunning Stoke free-kick at Storthes Hall in the FA Premier Academy League on Saturday.

The young Terriers fielded five under-16 players alongside more experienced players such as Liam Ridehalgh and skipper Leigh Franks and bossed the game for large periods, but were sunk by a stunning 25-yard set-piece ten minutes before half-time.

Town's best chances fell to striker Jimmy Spencer, who had a header well saved, whereas substitute Chris Atkinson forced a point-blank save from the Stoke custodian and in-form winger Aiden Chippendale was denied with two smart saves from the 'keeper.

"The performances have been very encouraging of late, especially when you consider the age of the teams we have been fielding," Academy Manager Mitchell told htafc.com.

"The under-16 players have been doing very well; in some cases they are giving away two or three years to their opponents, but they are coping and it will stand them in good stead for next season."

One concern to come out of the game was a knee injury to under-16 midfielder Matt Crooks; he was withdrawn in the final moments of the game and will undergo a scan later today.

Town's Team (4-3-3):

Lloyd Allinson; Greg Pearson, Liam Ridehalgh, Leigh Franks (c), Stephen Powell; Israel Johnson (Chris Atkinson 46), Matt Crooks (Aidan D'Arcy 90), Jordan Sinnott; Aiden Chippendale, James Spencer, Michael McCaffery (Warwick Charlton 60)

Unused Substitute: Jordan Porter