Fine Start for Youngsters
Clyde’s newly formed under-20 squad started their 2016-17 SPFL Development League West campaign last night and earned a very credible away draw against Queen’s Park at Lesser Hampden.
The more experienced Spiders team took an early lead in the first half, but The Bully Wee came back impressively and an excellent goal from Alex Lynn secured a well-deserved 1-1 draw and an opening point.
CLYDE: Creechan, McPhee, Martin, E McMillan, Clark, Bain, Lynn, Shanganya, Barr, Sweeney, Coleman. SUBS: Kilpatrick, McClung, Andrew, Trialist, Trialist, M McMillan.
Under-20s coach, Richard Fox spoke to the official website today and he was delighted by the progress shown, just a week after the same side knocked Clyde out of the SFA Youth Cup with a 5-1 victory.
“We had to make three changes; two due to injury and one due to work commitments,” he said. “We made a bit of a slow start and we were maybe a bit nervous after the cup defeat. They got an early goal on the break, which the lad finished well.
“After that, we were able to get back into the game and create a few chances and that really gave us some enthusiasm and belief. I thought we went on to dominate the second half. Alex took his goal really well – it was great technique and a great strike from 25 yards. I thought we could have possibly gone on to win the game, but it was a really hot night and both sides looked tired in the final minutes.
“I want to give real credit to the boys. They showed some mental toughness to come back and put in a fantastic team performance so soon after losing to Queen’s Park in the cup. They could have felt sorry for themselves but we put on some extra training sessions to keep the spirits up and in football you always have the next match to make up for a defeat.”
The under-20s next league match is on Sunday against Airdrie, with a 1pm kick-off at the Broadwood Astro.