AFCB

Under-18s

Lowy praises team's mentality after victory over Sheffield United

Under-18s boss James Lowy was full of praise for his charges as they sealed a 4-2 victory at Sheffield United in the Professional Development League.

A double from Charlie Stevens set the Cherries on their way to success, while there were also goals for Jonny Day and Karlos Gregory.

It meant back-to-back triumphs for the under-18s and gave them their ninth league win of the campaign.

Lowy told afcb.co.uk: “Overall, it was a good team performance.

“The lads showed great mentality to win the game and build on the momentum that they gained against Colchester last week.

“I think we were pleased with the togetherness that the lads showed. There was a good feel and mentality within the group.”

A fast start from the Cherries saw them open the scoring through Stevens after just two minutes at the Blades’ Shirecliffe training centre.

The hosts then put Lowy’s side under pressure, Zach Giggs surged forward and played the ball to Marshall Francis, who fired just wide.

However, the visitors doubled their lead on 23 minutes. Stevens was alert to add his second of the afternoon after an initial effort was saved.

Back came the Blades with a response just three minutes later. A corner fell to a trialist on the edge of the box, who sent the ball into the net via a deflection.

Sheffield United were reduced to 10 men early in the second half when Giggs was shown a red card, with the Cherries looking to capitalise on their numerical advantage.

Day capped off a slick counter-attack on 56 minutes to make it 3-1 to the away side.

Sam Aston pulled a goal back for the visitors just past the hour mark but Lowy’s side wrapped up the contest with 11 minutes remaining.

A precise cross from Tommy Whitehead found midfielder Gregory to convert at the back post.

“Now it’s to get back on the grass, have a good week’s work and look to go again against Charlton next week,” said Lowy.

The under-18s make the trip to Charlton’s training ground on Tuesday (1pm).