Writhlington Football Academy - November 2012

It has been an excellent start to the term for the Writhlington U19 Football Academy.

Since bowing out of the FA Youth Cup to AFC Totten in a disappointing match the squad has responded well. The team took a step back, assessed where improvement was required and since then has produced some really positive results and pleasing performances.

Newport County were the first visitors to Twerton Park (Mayday Trust). Newport is always challenging opponents so this was a test of character after a disappointing week. Several players produced their best performances to date in a great team performance. Sam Babatunde, Elliot Gibbens, Ben Royall and Joe Raynes scored the goals and produced outstanding performances along with Morgan Marsh and Jake Miller. Result 4-0.

The following week saw a 2-1 victory over strong opponents, Forest Green Rovers.

A test of the team’s mental approach followed with a trip to Poole Town, a team without any points. Poole town took the lead but with a strong ethic and determination Writhlington came back to win 6-3.

Current league holders Salisbury came to Writhlington on Saturday. This was a tough game which tested both teams physically. The players produced another outstanding team performance sealing a 4-0 win to take Writhlington top of the league.

Sandwiched in between these fixtures was the Somerset Premier cup match away at Wellington. Supported by some of the senior first team squad, eight of the youth team played and superbly represented the academy and club.

Lewis Shipp and Ryan Mitchell have played for the under 21-development team this season, showing that the overall progress of the squad is extremely positive.