This is the latest in a series of weekly updates focusing on our new U21s side, courtesy of Matt Tennant…
The U21s returned to action this week with a hectic 3-3 draw against Diamond Academy U21s.
The Rouslers travelled to Birmingham for their fourth league game of the season and Diamond, who already endured a bruising defeat to Sporting this season, were determined not to let history repeat itself.
Bromsgrove’s Kyle Shaw kicked off the scoring with an early finish assisted by Harvey Reeve before George Gillon knocked the ball in with a cool and collected header to set a comfortable 0-2 lead.
But basic errors offered the home side opportunities, which they took to jump back and draw level by half-time.
The stage was set for an intense second half, with Diamond finding a stunning break from outside the box to lead 3-2. But in the end, it was a Diamond own goal that rescued Bromsgrove from defeat, in a game strewn with unfortunate errors from the visitors.
“No game at any level is easy and when you don’t do the basics well enough you get caught out,” said U21s joint manager, Stuart Carson.
“Following a good start to the match, being two goals up, it’s all about managing the game, in and out of possession and taking your chances. Through greater desire Diamond, to their credit, came back well and took their chances.
“Following changes at half time, the message was clear – get back to doing the basics well. In the second half, we were slightly better on the ball, playing through midfield, but a strike from outside the box for Diamond left us chasing the draw. To the lads’ credit, we drew level to share the points.”
Bromsgrove Sporting U21s are third in the U21s Midland South Division. They are joint with Cadbury Athletic U21s, on seven points, but are ahead on goal difference.
“U21 football is all about learning and seizing opportunities in the game. Onto the cup next week and plenty to work on at training this week,” Stuart added.
The team now turn their attention to this weekend, which marks the start of the U21s Saturday Cup, a competition organised by the Worcestershire County Football Association.
The knockout tournament’s senior competition began in 1893 and will include 24 teams from 16 clubs across Worcestershire in the U21s category this season.
“Looking ahead to Saturday, we host Pershore Town 88 Development playing our first game in the Worcestershire FA County Cup at The UK Electrical Stadium,” said joint manager Mark Reeve.
“We’re looking to bounce back from last weekend’s league draw and progress through to the WFA County Cup next round unbeaten.
“It’s a testing tie for the squad but one we are really looking forward to.”
Bromsgrove’s U21s will kick off their campaign against Pershore at home (2:00 KO) on Saturday 28th September.
