Oxford United Women earned their first three points of the season on Sunday with a starting eleven with an average age of 22.
Two 16-year-olds started, with Cecily Wellesley-Smith at centre back and Caitlin Crierie in goal
All of the front three in Izzy Cook, Zoe Barratt and Sarah King are just twenty, and all got on the scoresheet to give the U’s a much-needed victory in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division.
Furthermore, the Yellows finished with four Regional Talent Centre graduates on the pitch: Crieire, Wellesley-Smith, Katie Sherwood and Amy Woodhead.
General Manager Gemma Sims said
“It’s fantastic to see that we are continuing to provide opportunities for young talent to develop in our First Team. We’re really excited by some of the prospects we have in the squad.
“It’s not a coincidence though, it’s years of setting up a pathway that reflects what an Oxford United side looks like right throughout the age groups. That becomes evident when RTC graduates can step in and look very comfortable in First Team games.
“Cecily and Katie have both played several times in the League this season and have looked right at home. It’s great to know that the future is bright and hopefully players in the younger age groups will be inspired by their successes.
“The win on Sunday was really important to give the young side some confidence; there’s plenty of talent in this side and there will be lots more to come from the group.