U18s: Bolton 2-1 Arsenal

Young Whites clinch home victory over Arsenal

Two first half goals saw Wanderers’ Under-18s record victory over Arsenal in their last FA U18 Premier League on Saturday. 

The Whites took the lead early on through Tyrell Palmer as the midfielder stroked home from close-range after being picked out by Danny McKenna, who had stolen possession back off Arsenal in the final third.

Under-16s player Ryan White doubled Bolton’s lead soon after, reacting first to a loose ball to convert from 10 yards.

Arsenal halved the deficit after the break, but the Trotters held on to clinch an impressive three points.

Speaking after the final whistle, coach David Lee shared his delight at the manner of his young side’s victory against the Gunners.

“From the first minute to the last, the players worked tirelessly to press Arsenal and we were rewarded with two good first half goals. 

“With a young side out, including two under-16s, we played some good attacking football, while we also defended well within our units. 

“It was a pleasing performance from both the team and individuals, with all the lads showing a mature level of responsibility in all areas of the pitch.

“From a development perspective, the players were tested against an Arsenal team made up of high quality overseas players, so to get the victory against them is even more pleasing.”

Bolton: Jaaskelainen, Spooner, Lonsdale, Phillips, Honeyball, Griffiths, Likoy-Elumba, Cvetko, Palmer, (Abbotts 65), McKenna, White (Garratt 70).

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