Under-18s manager chuffed with 3-1 win
Youth Team boss Paul Driver was delighted with his side’s performance as a 3-1 win over Colchester extended their unbeaten run to 16 games and booked them a place in the second round of the FA Youth Cup.
Goals from Freddie Hinds, Alex Atkinson and an own goal were the difference as the Town saw off a higher-rated category two academy side at Kenilworth Road to seal a date with Leyton Orient or AFC Hornchurch.
“They’ve worked hard all season and to have a team like Colchester from that level play here and beat them, I’m really chuffed,” Driver told Hatters Player. “They’re not used to playing teams from that level and at that kind of tempo, but I think we showed what we’re all about, especially in the second half.
“It was a good battling performance. We took our chances when we had them and we dug in when we needed to dig in.”
Seven of the 10 first year scholars used on the night have been together since Under-9 level.
And Driver believes that is a major factor behind the Town’s success this season – Monday’s victory was their 14th win in 16 matches in all competitions.
“A lot of these boys have been together for a helluva long time,” said Driver. “They all know each other’s game and I think that showed in that team performance.”
Next up for the Under-18s is a trip to AFC Wimbledon on Saturday.
Watch the full interview with Paul here on Hatters Player.