Kosovan Bersant Celina’s goal proved to be the difference between City U18’s and Stoke’s equivalent. Jason Wilcox’s men were in total control for this contest, but spurned a number of chances to put the tie to bed. Fortunately, the youngsters had enough about them to progress to the FA Youth Cup quarter final, where they will meet the winner of the tie between Arsenal and Crewe Alexandra.
Much like the previous round, Wilcox fielded a strong side, with a host of EDS stars making the starting eleven for a competition which clearly has a high degree of importance for the club. Bersant Celina, Kean Bryan, Pablo Maffeo, Angelino and the red-hot Brandon Barker were all selected from the off.
In fairness, the game started impromptly and it took a brief while for City to get into the stride. But once they did, they looked wholly threatening and pulled Stoke all over the place. The first real chance of note came in the 7th minute, as Denzeil Boadu, playing in slightly unfamiliar territory in attack, latched on to a loose pass, and though the youngster had sight of goal, he was thwarted by visiting keeper Daniel Gyollia. The Potters had their golden opportunity minutes later after Albinson was caught on a backpass, however Celina got back just in time to amend his errant pass.
City’s rapid improvement coincided with the positive approach adopted by winger Brandon Barker, who has been on fire in recent outings. City’s no.11 single-handedly carved out an opportunity for himself in 21st minute, delicately nipping in between players to eventually work an opening, which resulted in a shot cleared off the line. Directness is a pivotal feature in Barker’s play and he demonstrated this in abundance against Stoke, constantly teasing, tormenting and terrorising his opposing full-back. He combines electric speed with composure in tight areas, and was the source of a high amount of city attacks. His partnership with Angelino, another dangerous weapon down the left, was a joy to watch.
As the first half wore on, City became increasingly more dangerous and were good value for their lead, which came in the 37th minute. Boadu had been impressive in terms of his link-up play and played a critical role in the goal. After conducting the move, the youngster linked up with Celina sublimely, picking out his teammate with a perfectly-placed pass for the on-rushing Celina to finish coolly after rounding Gyollia.
City continued where they left off in the second half, almost extending their lead in the 47tht minute, as Boadu was denied on the line. The no.9 played in Barker who drew a commendable save from Gyollia. The in-form star was again involved moments later, this time opting to go on the outside and darting to the by-line, yet somehow seeing his cross evade a City man. Rarely do you see a player so comfortable with either foot at this level, but Barker is a definite exception. Full-backs have such a tough time nullifying him, because he always seems to find a route to goal even when going on his supposedly weaker left-foot.
Wilcox made use of his substitutes, bringing on Wood and Dilrosun in place of Kongolo and Barker – perhaps with the upcoming U21 game against Leicester. Midfielder Wood added a much-needed calmness in central areas, but squandered a great chance to make things a little more comfortable for the Blues. A wonderfully crafted move began with Angelino, moved on via a delightful flick from Boadu and ended in a neat combination between Celina and Wood. The latter’s heavy touch was pounced upon by Gyollia, while the former was a tad too hesitant to shoot on the rebound.
All in all, City played some superb football, yet should have won by a greater margin. At times their finishing was wild and let the Potters off the hook. However, sometimes proceedings don’t go your way and you still have to see out the game. City did this admirably, Tosin Adarabioyo and Cameron Humphreys sniffing out any attack constructed by the visitors. To conclude, an enjoyable performance from Wilcox’s men, without hitting major heights. We have an array of talent at our disposal, therefore it is essential we utilise our youth system shrewdly.
