Season ends with 2-0 defeat at Luton Town
The under-18s finished their SE Youth Alliance League campaign with a 2-0 defeat at Luton Town on Saturday.
Steve Martin and Mark Beard’s side were missing several first team players with the exception of Bradley Isaacs and Emmanuel Rowe so several trialists were drafted in following a poor performance against MK Dons.
The Reds battled hard against a big strong physical side in Luton who gained the advantage just on half time from a set piece.
Crawley continued to play some attractive football but fell further behind to an own goal in the second half.
Reds missed some good chances to set up a nervy finish as the game finished 2-0 but Mark and Steve were full of praise for their team’s attitude in defeat.
“The boys were excellent. They were a real credit to the football club, each one of them came off that pitch shattered.” Steve said. “Thanks to Ardingly College and Burgess Hill Town FC for allowing us to use their players in order for us to fulfil our final fixture.”
Reds suffered a 4-2 defeat at the hands of MK Dons ten days ago.
Crawley took the lead through Tope Fowodu with a fine controlled finish but a lack of concentration allowed the Dons to open up a 3-1 lead.
Dons continued to dominate the match in the second half, scoring again to extend their advantage before Reds pulled a goal back through trialist Chris Holman.
Crawley were punished for a poor performance at key stages in the game, something that both Steve and Mark were disappointed with.
Steve said: “With the exception of three players, the application was unacceptable. The lads have had plenty of opportunities to show their abilities to watching scouts but it was an unacceptable performance from full-time scholars.”
Ryan Richefond has been excused from youth team duties as he continues his development with the first team, travelling up to MK Dons to be part of the matchday squad. Steve says the attitude and effort of the midfielder has been superb. He added: “Ryan is a brilliant professional and both him and Bradley Isaacs deserve their shot at the first team.”
Reds (v. Luton): Morrish, T. Summerfield, Pittock, A. Summerfield, Evans, Isaacs, Holman, Bircham, Beard, Rowe, Makepeace.
