Jordan Roberts' first-half goal confirms first place in Southern Group D of the Papa John's Trophy...
Boro turned their focus away from the league and onto The Papa John’s Trophy as Tottenham’s Youth made the short trip to Hertfordshire on a cool Tuesday evening. Evans made eight changes from Saturday’s clash in Gillingham as Chapman, Clark, Taylor, Norris, Campbell, Kane Smith, Read and Bostwick all returned to the starting eleven.
Stevenage had an early sight on goal within a minute as Jordan Roberts struck from the edge of the area but fired just over the bar. Evans’ side continued to push for the opener ten minutes later, this time with Danny Rose’s header flying just wide of the post.
After twenty minutes, Boro broke the deadlock. Danny Rose knocked the ball onto Max Clark on the left wing who crossed into a dangerous area, allowing Jordan Roberts to strike first time and find the back of the net.
After a rather quiet period, Stevenage came close again through Danny Rose. Arthur Read’s free kick found the striker at the back post who attempted an overhead kick but blasted wide.
With Spurs struggling to get out their own half, Kane Smith earned Boro a free-kick on the right wing. Arthur Read stepped up again and went for goal, but his effort was tipped over the bar by Tottenham stopper Josh Keeley.
The second half got underway, and Boro were now attacking towards the North Stand, looking to see out the victory.
Spurs had a clear-cut chance around the hour mark as Nile John was set through in goal. The midfielder attempted to slot it past Aaron Chapman but the goalkeeper’s large frame denied the shot and the danger was eventually cleared.
The North London youngsters then had a free kick just outside the box with Jamie Donley whipping the ball into the area, but Jordan Roberts headed away.
With fifteen to go, Boro were searching for their second goal to solidify their place at the top of Southern Group D. Luke Norris played the ball over to Arthur Read who took aim on his right foot, but his shot was blocked.
Steve Evans made his final substitutions soon after with David Amoo and Jamie Reid replacing Luke Norris and Danny Rose up top.
Under ten minutes remained and Tottenham’s Nile John received a second yellow card after a late challenge, reducing his side to ten minutes. Jordan Roberts then made way for Alex Gilbey to see out the game.
Boro then saw out a quiet four minutes of added time as the final whistle confirmed the side’s progression into the Knockout Round of the Papa Johns Trophy. Attention now turns back to Sky Bet League Two as third place Northampton Town come to The Lamex this Saturday.
Attendance: 1449 including 140 away supporters.