Development squad battle past Bradford in torrid conditions...
ASSISTANT Manager, Richard O’Kelly was quick to heap praise on his sides performance after the development squad ran out 3-0 winners over Bradford City.Second half goals from Amadou Bakayoko, Jordan Sangha and Reece Flanagan was enough to seal the win on Tuesday afternoon, in a game played in torrid conditions.
“They were as bad as we’ve played in,” said O’Kelly. “We had to deal with gale force winds which was extremely difficult.
"A few refereeing decisions went against us but our attitude was absolutely top draw.
“It was the perfect scenario for us to show whether we’ve learnt anything as a team. We backed each other up, showed great character and the right attitude which will get them somewhere in the game.
“In fairness we had Liam Roberts to thank for going in goalless at half time. He pulled off some great saves and really excelled for us.
“But we continued to do the right thing in the second half and kicking with the wind we began to build our way into the game.
“Our one and two touch football was great to see and their keeper has then had to made two or three saves to keep them in it.
“Finally we got the breakthrough, Amadou Bakayoko with the finish after some neat play with Reece Flanagan.
“Jordan Sangha put in a really accomplished performance and made it two shortly after.
“The goals put us in control and then Reece Flanagan caps off a fine performance with a goal of his own.
“Our attitude and application really stood out for me and that allowed our ability to shine through. They had five or six first team professionals in their side, which makes the result and performance all the more satisfying.”
STARTING LINE UP: L. Roberts, K. Roberts, K.Rowley, Smith, Cockerill-Mollett, L.Rowley (60’ Oliver), Flanagan (80’ Tonks), Kinsella, Sangha (75’ Kouhyar), Baxendale, Bakayoko
UNUSED SUB: Jezeph