Young Terriers learn lessons against Pontefract Collieries
- Under-17s faced Evo-Stik League opponent
- Young Terriers face highest place team yet in Pontefract Collieries
- Youngsters show promising stages of development despite result
Following on from last week’s test against AFC Emley, Town’s Under-17 side stepped up preparations to face an opponent two further tiers up the pyramid in Pontefract Collieries on Tuesday evening.
Town’s side has been learning the early stages of the ‘Terriers Identity’ style of play in recent weeks, and the game in Pontefract provided a physical stimulus for the youngsters, challenging them to put what they had already learned into practice.
Even against a side full of men, The Town youngsters didn’t shirk the physical test, bravely stepping up to challenge and stamping their game plan on the opposition in stages.
Pontefract was by far the strongest opponent for the Young Terriers so far, who have only been together as a group for five weeks. Despite the heavy reversal in the scoreline – 11-1 after 90 minutes, with Jaheim Headley scoring Town’s consolation, Academy Manager Leigh Bromby was still encouraged by some of the signs on display.
Given the different levels of physical development on both sides, the scholars defended well in stages, including from set-pieces when the advantage heavily weighted in favour of the host side.
The youngsters had some good moments in the games showing braveness in possession when playing out from the back along with good tactical intelligence when applying a high press on the opposition.
Most promising was the side’s ball progression through the thirds, getting in some good positions but just lacking that cutting edge in the final third - something the coaches will work on in the coming weeks.
Town’s scholars will have the next test in their development this coming Saturday as they welcome York City's U19 side to PPG Canalside for an 11am kick-off. Supporters can come and watch the next stage of the U17s’ development free of charge.
Town’s Starting Line-Up (4-2-3-1):
Giosue Bellagambi; Sam Sharrock-Peplow, Mustapha Olagunju, Nassim Kherbouche, Mohammed Diaby; Jaheim Headley, Seth Meeson; Darnell Mintus, Josh Austerfield, Andrew Ijiwole; Kian Harratt
Subs:
Ben Mills, Remi Thompson, Taylor Annakin
