Stevenage U18s opened their league account with a narrow 3-2 defeat at Southend United on Saturday.
Despite dominating the early proceedings and forcing the Shrimpers ‘keeper into a couple of good saves, a young Boro side fell behind in the 18th minute when Jason Williams was in the right place to tap home after Callum Robinson had tipped a shot onto his left post.
Darren Sarll’s men responded and hit the post with one effort but deservedly drew level three minutes before the break when Fejiri Okenabirhie went on a mesmerising run down the inside-right channel, flummoxed the Blue’s back line and finished well.
Two further goals in the second half by Williams – his hat-trick goal a left footed strike from distance into the top corner – put the hosts in control but Boro never gave up and pulled one back when Ross Millard’s corner went straight in.
Head of Youth Darren Sarll commented, “Overall we were very good. The three goals they scored were so very much avoidable but that is consistent with young players. It was enjoyable, the boys gave it a good go and the great thing about the first game of the season is that we’re only going to get better.”
You can read more about the team’s performance, further reaction from Darren and our latest ‘One to Watch’ in Saturday’s matchday programme.
Boro: Callum Robinson, Tyrone Alleyne (Louis Yamfam), Jamie Morrell, Harold Joseph, Ross Millard, Alex Cathline (Lee Northfield), Ryan Towner, Rohdell Gordon, Jimmy Hartley (Zak Guerfi), Fejiri Okenabirhie, Lewis Scott
Sub not used: Jamie Silvestre