Academy scholar Monty Patterson started and scored as New Zealand’s U20s came from behind to beat Myanmar 5-1 to claim their first ever victory at the FIFA U20 World Cup in Wellington this morning.

The 18-year-old netted from close range two minutes after the break to put the hosts in front after Noah Billingsley had equalised Myanmar’s opener. Goals from Joel Stevens, Sam Brotherton and Clayton Lewis sealed the win.

Happy to have scored for my country and a great team performance pic.twitter.com/K0MDDLRdGH

— Monty Patterson (@PattersonMonty) June 6, 2015

The New Zealand youngsters finished third in their group but still could progress to the knockout stage depending on the results of games in other groups.

Midfielder or striker Patterson was making his first start of the tournament having come on as a sub in the 0-0 draw with group winners Ukraine and 4-0 defeat to the USA, who finished second.

Photo: Action Images

MaySixth added 10:22 - Jun 5 Good lad. Hope the Kiwis can make it through to the knock out stage andthat Patterson can break into the first team squad in 2015/2016.
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JewellintheTown added 11:36 - Jun 5 Well done lad. Should do him the world of good. It might be assumed by some that they should have easily won, but some interesting stats say its a great victory: Myanmar (Burma) is a country with around 53m people. NZ have around 4.5m. The NZ senior team is ranked 138 in the world. Myanmar is ranked 143. Football is Myanmars national sport. NZ is Rugby.
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MrBloo added 14:39 - Jun 5 Patterson is a very gifted player, strong, solid build and has an edge to his play. Certainly an U 21's player next season and will make the bench if we don't take a load of loan players in, which I hope we don't. Has all the hallmarks of making a living in the game. Not seen him play up front but he has the ability to dominate mid field. Plays well with Benyu and Chris Smith. Mick needs to be bringing this type of player on next season.

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KiwiBlue2 added 00:06 - Jun 6 This was the first of the three games that Monty started. He showed a willingness to surge forward making several good runs and showing very good ball control in close quarters and several nice touches. He positioned himself perfectly at the far post for his goal and tapped it in nicely. If we make the next round I hope that he starts again. Certainly a good prospect for Ipswich in the time ahead.

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statto added 10:08 - Jun 6 U20s Kiwis are through, virtue of Argentina's surprise failure and now Sebegal's worse goal difference. 2nd round will be either Ghana or Portugal - both tough games, so probably the end of the road for Monty and the Junior All Whites. Sure hope he starts again - has touch, drive, strength, an eye for goal - a fine prospect for Town. Keep up the hard work Monty!
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