Huddersfield Town

Chris Atkinson levelled matters in the second-half after Gary Madine had struck for the hosts ahead, but the Terriers dominated proceedings and were unlucky not to add to Atkinson’s solitary strike.

“It was a whole hearted contest; one in which we handicapped ourselves by conceding so early,” said Steve. “We allowed one of League 1’s best strikers from last season a tap in and from there it was an uphill struggle.” 

On the goal, Steve said: “They are a strong opposition and they caught us cold down the right hand side, but I don’t think we were tight enough. I was pleased for Robbie McIntrye, though, who learned his lesson from the goal and got much tighter – he was faultless for the rest of the game.

“Pretty much from the goal, though, we took the initiative and took control of the game before scoring a good goal. In the main we were excellent, I really enjoyed the game.”

With Jordan Sinnott, Matt Crooks, Atkinson and Dale Hopson occupying the midfield, Town out passed their opponents and arguably helped produce one of the U21s’ best displays of the season.

“Games are coming thick and fast at the moment and I certainly think the strength of the opposition helped us today because we needed to move the ball quickly, which I thought brought the best out of our talented youngsters. 

“They were a far more physical outfit than us, but we moved the ball brilliantly. We scored a brilliant goal to win the game on Monday against Wigan, but the one today was as good, if not better. Seven or eight of the lads shared the ball around the pitch and it is Chris Atkinson’s stock and trade to arrive at the right time and put the ball away.

Steve, who headed to Bristol City after the game to watch Town’s penultimate opponents of the season, praised his defensive duo.

“Joe Wilkinson at the back was fantastic today, he deserves to put his feet up tonight and he can be pleased with how he has done today. Also, the fast maturing Tommy Smith was brilliant; he marshalled the back four expertly.”