Northampton Town Under 18s manager Jon Brady was pleased with his team’s effort in their 1-1 draw away to top-of-the-table Cambridge United in the EFL Youth Alliance League South East on Saturday.
Cambridge took the lead on the half-hour mark, but Liam Cross equalised for the young Cobblers less than 10 minutes later.
Speaking after the match, which was played on an artificial surface in cold, wet weather, Brady said: “The conditions were horrible, but the surface was fantastic.
“It was a good game and both teams had a go, but I think we edged it in the end.
“We came away to the league leaders and drew 1-1, so it was a good result overall.”
Goalkeeper Charlie Woods made his first league start for the youth team and made numerous important saves, whilst top scorer Cross netted his seventh goal of the season.
Brady added: “Charlie was excellent today and he made an outstanding block on the line late on.
“He’s trained well, and he deserved his opportunity today.
“Meanwhile, Liam has been excellent this season and I’m really pleased for him.”
Before the draw, the Cobblers youngsters had only played once in the previous six weeks.
Brady said: “We were strong towards the end when we thought we would have flagged.
“The boys dug in and kept going to try to push for a winner.
“I’m pleased with their effort and that we didn’t let the conditions affect us.”
Six points off top spot with one game in hand, the Under 18s make the journey to Southend United in another top-of-the-table clash next Saturday.