Read all about how the Wanderers Academy NPL youth teams went against Blacktown City and Northern Tigers. Proudly brought to you by Multiquip.
U13s 5-0 win
Head coach: Rob Bradshaw
With a very good week of training, the squad was eagerly anticipating this fixture. However, the form did not transfer to the pitch with some untidy play in the first half. Poor decisions and execution were limiting the sides ability to control the tempo of the game and gain any momentum with the ball. Although the U13s were up 2-0 at the break, through well-taken chances by Andy Zalloua and Joey Banza, the expectation was higher. The standard of play was much higher than in the second half with better passing and speed proving to be the difference with another three goals added to the score. Ebuka Okoye with a hat-trick and imposing himself as a major threat up front was very pleasing. The midfield took better control in the 2nd half through Milo Robinson, Charlie Kewell, Adrian Trovato and Anton Imbro with the game finishing 5-0.
U14s 1-0 loss
Head coach: Peter Kofinas
The U14s match was one of mixed emotions. While the performance was especially strong in the second half where the side dominated the game and created great goal-scoring opportunities, it wasn’t to be with the side unable to capitalize on possession.
U15s 1-0 loss
Head coach: Yianni Tsattalios
The U15s suffered their first loss in 13 games in a tightly contested affair against Blacktown City. Blacktown City scored early in the game against the run of play and managed to hold on to their lead despite the Wanderers having many chances to equalise. Junior Conde came close to leveling the score on a couple of occasions but could not keep his shots down. Charlie Saul had a great chance late on to equalise with a great shot from distance however, the keeper was equally as good in his save.
U16s 1-0 win
Head coach: Geoff Abrahams
It was an excellent all-round performance from the U16s in a highly anticipated game against a very effective opposition. The Wanderers controlled large parts of the game and defended superbly to minimise chances for the opposition. The work rate off the ball was a real feature of this game which was impressive given the number of young players in the side. A goal to Max Hately in the first half after a brilliant lead-up play from Mansour El Masri was enough to grab the win.
U18s 2-1 loss
Head coach: Dean Mayer
The U18s suffered their first defeat of the season against Blacktown City going down 2-1. Both teams tried to gain control of the game early with the Wanderers trying to set a high tempo for the game.
Blacktown City hit first with a well-crafted goal after a quick break down the side. The Wanderers bounced back quickly when Julian Monge burst into the box and although his shot was saved, Jesper Webber was there to finish it off. The team was starting to gain control of the game but an unfortunate error led to Blacktown City winning possession with only the goalkeeper to beat.
The second half started exactly how we wanted with all the play in the right areas, the right intent, and creating opportunities early in the half. A red card to the opposition change the game slightly but forced the opposition to sit deeper and be more conservative. Although the Wanderers created multiple chances, including hitting the bar, they were unable to level the scores.
U20s 3-1 win against Northern Tigers
Head coach: Shaf Sagol
A fast-paced match saw the U20s continue their outstanding form and push further ahead to the top of the ladder with a 3-1 win. The U20s first two goals were arguably the goals of the season after an impressive build-up play against a high press. The young side are continuing to show off their talents in what has been a season to remember for the U20s. Goals were scored by Rhys Youlley, Peter Grozos and Lachlan MacDonald.
