Derby County v Cardiff City U18s

Date: 30/08/2008
Report: Carina Henriques & Stefan Daniels from the University of Glamorgan
Score: Derby County U18s 3-0 Cardiff City U18s

Highlights and Reaction from this game will be on Cardiff City World tomorrow.

City hosted Derby County's Academy at Ninian Park where the Bluebirds we're hoping to continue their unbeaten run. Many of the boys played in a Reserve match against Bristol Rovers just days before this game and were still on a high after a magnificent 3-0 win.

It was a rough first half for the Bluebirds with Derby on top for the most of play. In the 35th minute Derby gained the lead with a wonder strike to beat 'keeper Erwin Sak.

Just before half time Derby's striker went down inside the area and a penalty was awarded, the striker placed the ball just outside Sak's reach.

Cardiff could feel the pressure mounting and picked up their game in the second half, however this didn't stop Derby from getting another goal from what looked to be an offside position.

City tried too little too late, creating chances in their dying minutes of the game, but unfortunately were unable to score.

Although this was a very tough game for the U18's, Aaron Wildig's talent shone through. Our boys will be determined to get back to winning ways in their next Academy Premiership match against Southampton next weekend.

Neal Ardley
"Our centre midfielder, Aaron Wildig showed more courage, determination and positive attitude when things were going wrong than any other player. He was outstanding."

Team sheet: Erwin Sak, Adam Matthews, Dean Hudson ©, Kye Edwards, James Bloom, (11 Luke Cummings), Jon Meades, Zak Evans, Aaron Wildig, Billy Taylor, (68 Travis Wheatle), Leigh Smith, Nathanial Jarvis, (51 Josh Magennis). Subs not used: Craig Mason, Ibrahim Farah, Rhys Kelleher.