Academy Coach George Newell reports from Shawbridge…
Marine Academy Produce Incredible 3-0 Victory at Clitheroe
The Young Mariners produced an incredible display of character and togetherness to beat Clitheroe 3-0 away from home and book their place in the next round of the FA Youth Cup.
The Mariners took an early lead through Noah Roberts, who calmly converted from the penalty spot. But before half-time, the game took a dramatic turn as Nathan Stevenson and Noah Roberts were both shown red cards, leaving the Mariners with just nine men.
Coached by Tim Craig and Chris Stammers, the Young Mariners responded brilliantly after the break. Henry Hart came on at half-time and was moved into a makeshift forward role — and what followed was outstanding.
Rather than simply trying to hang on, the nine-man Mariners powered through Clitheroe, with Hart scoring two brilliant solo goals to complete a remarkable 3-0 victory.
First-team player Harry Huby was, as ever, an incredible standout, but this was a true team performance. Every player on the pitch, along with the substitutes, gave absolutely everything.
It could genuinely have been a nine-sided coin toss for Man of the Match, such was the level of the performance.
Academy coach Tim Craig had this to say after the match.
”Outstanding performance from them all. We started the game really well. Took a deserved lead and then had the 2 quick red cards before half time to deal with. Credit to the lads at HT they didn’t get negative or let heads drop knowing they had 45 minutes (at least) ahead of them with 9 men, away from home and up against it. The more things that go against this group the stronger and better they become!
They listened to the game plan and went and executed it to perfection. They were so good and to score 2 with 9 men and still create other clear chances against 11 was just ridiculously good. Their mentality, heart and sheer desire (combined with some really good football) to still get the job done was one of the best things I’ve ever seen as a coach, they deserve all the praise they are getting.
On to the next one!”
Nine men. Three goals. Incredible character. Through to the next round.
A fantastic evening for the Young Mariners.
The draw for the next round will be on Monday 21st September
