Another Jordan Rhodes goal took Town's reserves to their 11th straight league victory of the season against a determined Northampton side. The Cobblers provided far sterner opposition than many of the sides they have faced this season, most notably MK Dons, who were despatched 12-1 in the last home game.

Town should have gone ahead in the fourth minute but Ed Upson blazed over after good work down the left from Sito.

Liam Trotter saw a shot saved, then Town keeper Lewis Ward made a fine stop from Shaun Cunnell after some hesitancy at the back had left the Northampton striker with only Ward to beat.

On 18 Jordan Rhodes scored with his first opportunity of the game. The ball was played into his feet inside the area and the 18-year-old struck a shot on the turn which beat Cobblers keeper Chris Dunn.

Rhodes might have increased the lead before the break, but slipped the ball wide of goal when brilliantly played through one-on-one with the keeper by Upson.

Ward saved a well-struck Sam Maud shot two minutes into the second half, prior to Jack Ainsley taking over from the very quiet Gavin Williams.

Jai Reason and Kurt Robinson replaced Michael Synnott and Ed Upson, before Chris Casement whipped in a fine cross from the right which Jordan Rhodes headed over.

Liam Trotter shot wide, then keeper Dunn blocked an effort from Ainsley. Trotter was again wayward when his 81st minute shot flew over, then Robinson cleared a Danny May header off the line.

Seconds before the final whistle, Sito tried an audacious 50-yard chip, but keeper Dunn got back in time to claim the ball.

The Spaniard was one of the Blues' livelier performers in a game which was far more of a contest than previous home reserve games. Liam Trotter impressed in midfield, while Sylvain Legwinski looked assured in the holding role, if not overly energetic.

Several scouts watched the game including Luton manager Mick Harford, who was looking for players for next season, the Hatters' current position preventing them from signing loanees at the present time.

West Ham were again represented, probably due to their interest in Liam Trotter, who may also have been the reason for Spurs sending someone to watch the game.

A Hartlepool representative was also in attendance and it could be that one of the Town youngsters may join the final 93 days of their push for the play-offs after the weekend.

Town's reserves are currently top of the Pontin's Holidays Football Combination East Division with a maximum 33 points from 11 matches. Norwich City are in second on 24 points having played three games more.

Reserves: 1 Ward, 2 Synnott (13 Robinson 68), 3 Sito, 4 Wilnis, 5 Smith, 6 Casement, 7 Legwinski, 8 Trotter, 9 Rhodes, 10 Upson (12 Reason 68), 11 G Williams (16 Ainsley 60). Unused: 14 Fenn, 15 C Williams.

Photo: Action Images

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