Young Cherries side defeated by Portsmouth
AFC Bournemouth
- Attendance:
- 0
A young AFC Bournemouth side were narrowly defeated 2-1 by Portsmouth at Canford Arena on Saturday morning.
Michael Dacosta Gonzalez scored the only goal for the Cherries in a tight contest, with the hosts having six under-16s in the starting line-up alongside five first-year scholars.
As the Merit League clash got underway, Alan Connell's side had the wind in the first half and created some good chances as a result.
Ashley Clarke, who was playing a year up, forged the best opening for his side after a strong half-an-hour, winning a penalty for his side. Up stepped Daniel Adu-Adjei, but the striker saw his spot-kick fly over the bar.
Nevertheless, five minutes later, a good team move materialised and the Cherries had the lead. Adu-Adjei picked out Clarke, who neatly played in Dacosta Gonzalez, the winger going round the 'keeper to slot home.
Despite good pressure from the hosts, Portsmouth found their way back into the game after a lapse of concentration at the back. Alfie Bridgman consequently broke through and found the target, with the scores level going into the break.
Connell's side started the second half strongly and had plenty of good chances.
Adu-Adjei saw his low shot saved, while Baylin Johnson also worked the 'keeper from close range. Dacosta Gonzalez also caused problems for the Blues, as he saw his effort tipper around the post from the edge of the area.
However, it wasn't to be for Bournemouth, as the visitors found a second goal five minutes from time, Bridgman again getting himself on the scoresheet after cutting inside and finishing low.
After the game, afcb.co.uk spoke with manager Connell about the performance and the positives to take for his young side.
"It was good to give some youngsters an opportunity out there today, with six under-16s starting and a couple of under-15s on the bench," he began.
"It was a chance for players to step up and show what they could do. We tweaked the formation based on the players we had available and I thought that we caused Portsmouth problems.
"We looked dangerous going forwards but, for all our good play in that area, I think we could've scored another one or two in the first half as we knew they'd come back into it.
"They had boys who were physically capable and strong in areas, and that overpowered us a bit at times. That's understandable given the stage of development that our boys are at.
"It was certainly a good indicator for some of the younger ones, who we'll need to step up in the coming weeks and months.
"While it was disappointing to lose the game, there were pleasing aspects and we're looking forward to getting back on the training ground next week."