Under-18s win 5-1 in Devon
On Saturday morning United’s under-18s made the long trip to Exeter City and came away with a 5-1 win.
United started strongly and were 4-1 up at the interval with goals from Sam Humphreys (2), Jamie Calvin and James Roberts. Aidan Hawtin completed the scoring in the second period.
Coach Chris Allen told us:
‘This was a very good performance right from the first whistle. All the lads had the right attitude and played the game at a good tempo and with good energy.
‘We scored early on from good play down the left which resulted in Sam Humphreys lofting the ball into an empty net.
‘Five minutes later Josh Ashby sent in an inswinging corner which Jamie Calvin headed home for his first goal for us. That made it 2-0 after just 10 minutes.
‘We made it 3-0 when Aidan Hawtin went down the right and crossed into the box. James Roberts’ shot was parried by the keeper but Sam Humphreys was following in to convert the rebound. That was very pleasing because it was the left-winger getting in on the end of a cross from the right wing.
‘We then conceded a poor goal. James Clarke did well to win a tackle but he dwelt on the ball too long allowing their player to nick it and shoot into the centre of the net from about 20 yards.
‘However, their heads didn’t drop and before the interval Josh Ashby picked up the ball in the midfield and put through a great ball for James Roberts who passed it into the net.
‘We expected Exeter to rally after half-time but we held firm and continued to play well. We completed the scoring after James Roberts was fouled inside the penalty area. The ref actually waved play-on and the ball fell to Aidan who slotted it home.
‘All round this was a fantastic performance, especially considering we had a number of under-16s in the side. The boys have now just got to continue producing this sort of play.’
Next up for United is Swindon Town at home in the League Cup. The game will take place at the Oxford Sports & Social Club at Roman Way on Saturday, kick-off 11am.
UNITED: B Martin, Clarke, McCormack, A Grant, F Grant, Hawtin, Ashby, D Martin (George), Humphreys (Conte), Calvin (Hackett), Roberts