SAM Rose feels that a ‘testing’ pre-season is already paying dividends, and it showed in the opening 2-2 draw with Hartlepool.
Kyle Clamp’s stunner and a goal from Emmanuel Shittu secured the first point of the season for the Young Brewers in an end-to-end game.
Rose was pleased with the fitness levels that the under 18s showed in the opening game of the Youth Alliance season and thinks that their intense pre-season played a part in that.
He said: “We’ve had a testing pre-season both from a physical perspective and with opposition we faced. The group are looking fit and have come together well. We’re pleased to get the season underway. It’s a big season for these lads and we’re excited about what’s ahead.
“I think we have seen the group grow in maturity based largely on the type of games they have experienced over pre-season. We’re hoping they have had a taste of what it is to compete physically in matches and the importance of game intelligence, both when we are on top in games and in times when we are under pressure.
“We we’re pleased with some of the attacking play overall. Kyle Clamp scored a great goal to bring us back in the game on Saturday. The emphasis is on attacking and defending together well as a team and we will be looking to improve these aspects as the season progresses.”
Next up for the under 18s is a trip to face Mansfield Town under 18s on Friday. The Stags have been a force in the Youth Alliance in recent seasons, and Rose is looking forward to the challenge.
“Playing Mansfield Town is always a challenge and a challenge that the group look forward to. We go in to the game with confidence and, as we do in any situation, will do our best to play well and win.”