Northampton Town Under 18s coach Shane Goddard was pleased with elements of his side’s performance as they lost 2-1 away to Cambridge United in the EFL Youth Alliance Merit League Two on Saturday.
Joziah Barnett scored the young Cobblers’ goal as they were defeated in their second fixture of the second stage of the season.
“It was a generally positive performance, and we were the better side for large periods,” Goddard said.
“We had a wobble for a 10-minute spell after we conceded the penalty.
“Marcus Bald saved it really well, but we didn’t control our emotions in the moments following that.
“It was a really competitive game overall, and we created some good chances.
“We have to show more desire, hunger and ruthlessness in those moments.
“We’ve done that in spells over the last year, but we have to do it more consistently.
“It’s a loss on the board, but there are elements of the performance that we can be pleased with.”
The youth team host Brentford in their fourth Merit League fixture next week.
