Town’s U18s were defeated 3-2 by Crewe Alexandra at Playford Road this morning. The young Blues had centre-half Luke Woolfenden in goal from late in the first half after keeper Nick Hayes (pictured) was forced off injured.
The U18s went two goals in front via Ben Morris and Sam Ford within the first 10 minutes but Callum Ainsley and Jon Higham levelled before the break and, after Hayes had gone off just before half-time, Tom Quinn netted a late winner for the Alex.
Hayes will hope the injury won’t keep him out of the England U17 squad for the St George’s Tournament later this month. Town’s U16s beat Millwall 6-4 in their game this morning, also at Playford Road.
Meanwhile, the U18s will play Ryman League Premier Division Leiston away in the second round of the Suffolk FA Premier Cup.
The young Blues were drawn at home but will surrender home advantage throughout their run in the competition. The tie is expected to take place week commencing 19th October.
This season is the first time a Blues side has entered the competition since 2012/13.
U18s: Hayes (Cole), Fowler, Bombalenga, Woolfenden, Salaudeen (Daly), Nydam (Fullwood), Blanchfield, Maynard, Meldrum, Ford, Morris.