David Longwell reflects on Town's under-18's 3-2 win over Accrington Stanley.
Shrewsbury Town’s under-18’s continued their bright start to the season with a 3-2 win over Accrington Stanley away from home.
Liam Thomas was once again amongst the goals as his brace helped the young Shrews earn another win on the road.
Academy Manager David Longwell was pleased with the result and feels Town’s youngsters will have gained a lot from the game.
On the fixture and result:
“In the first half, it was some of the best football they’ve played this year in the league. They were really at it and were really good in the first half. They scored three goals but probably should have had four or five. Their keeper made some great saves.
“The wind really got up in the second half and the conditions became a little bit challenging. It really changed the game and Accrington really grew into it. We gave away a poor goal to make it 3-1 and they managed to get a second which made it cagy.
“The lads should have seen the game out a little bit easier but overall it was a good result considering the conditions. They did well to deal with the wind.”
“We play Tranmere next. We have got players in the team who can score goals. We just need to see games out better. It’s hard to get clean sheets at this level because they are young and make more mistakes.”
On Liam Thomas’ brace:
“Liam Thomas takes things on board and works really hard. Because he works hard, he’s getting the rewards – it’s that simple. No matter who you are, if you put the work in, you will get the rewards. He gets himself into good positions. He also put in a really good ball for Jenson to find the net.”
Town’s younger age groups also faced off with Blackpool away from home in a number of fixtures. David Longwell paid tribute to Blackpool Academy Manager Warren Green who sadly passed away earlier this year.
“I met Warren a while ago when I first came in and he was a really, really top guy. He was great to deal with and a nice person. What has happened is really sad and our thoughts are with his family and friends. We were in a humble position playing them last weekend. The games were excellent and it would have been a fitting tribute to him.”
