Coach Shane Goddard was pleased with Northampton Town Under 18s’ effort and commitment in their 3-1 win at home to Leyton Orient Under 18s on Saturday.
Jack Connor scored a hat-trick to secure three points on the opening day of the EFL Youth Alliance League South East season.
Speaking after the match, Goddard said: “So many positives have come out of today, but there’s lots of areas we’re looking to improve in.
“We wanted to be ready for the first game, but we only had three friendlies so we knew we wouldn’t be the finished article.
“We want to retain the ball better, but there were times when we strung good passing combinations together.
“A 3-1 win is positive for us, we would have taken it at the start of the game and it gives us momentum going into next week.
“The boys can be proud of their efforts because their work rate didn’t drop, and I’m pleased with the effort and commitment they put into the game.”
The youth team host Sutton United Under 18s next week.
Goddard added: “It’s the first time we’ve ever played Sutton, so it will be a new challenge for us.
“We’ll be focussed on us and how we can improve upon today.
“We’re looking forward to the game, and it can’t come quick enough!”