Following last weeks 1-0 defeat to Southend, Stevenage FC’s U18s are looking to bounce back at home to Leyton Orient tomorrow morning...
The youngsters kick-off at Shepalbury Academy at 10:30am and supporters are welcome to go along and watch.
The big news going into the game is the return of star centre-back, Ben Wilmot. Head coach Jorden Gibson says it is a big boost.
“We are delighted Ben is finally ready to return. It was the type of injury that you can’t rush back from so we have made sure he is 100% ready to go. He has spent a lot of time up with the First Team and will be a big addition to the team.”
In other injury news, Gibson says goalkeeper Ryan Schmid will be out with illness but first year Harry Payne will be ready to step in.
“Ryan Schmid is unfortunately ill so he won’t participate tomorrow but Harry Payne has been outstanding recently. I am really proud and pleased for him, he will play again and deservedly so.”
Speaking on the game itself, Gibson says the team are expecting another tough game against last season’s standout team in the division.
“Leyton Orient have always been a strong team and certainly last year they were very successful. It means that they had many players go on and get senior experience but they will still be a really tough game.
“I am looking forward to it but it will be a good test for our lads. Leyton Orient always play good football and I have no doubt that they will be well organised, well-structured and very hard to break down.
“Our boys put pressure on themselves each day, they want to do well as both individuals and as a group and that won't be any different whether they won, lost or drew the previous week.
“I think that it is important they understand at youth level it is not all about winning. It is about improving as a player and as a person.”