The Starting Line Up: Blues U21s (first half): Nick Townsend, Josh Cogley, Lukas Grill, Dom Bernard, Steve Seddon, Alfie Crooks, Charlie Cooper, George O`Neill, Viv Solomon-Otabor, Alex Jones, Denny Johnstone
Blues U21s (second half): Connal Trueman, Andy Nikolau, Lukas Grill, Brad Lewis, Josh Cogley, Wes McDonald, Noe Baba, Kieran Bywater, Alfie Crooks, Alex Jones (Kyle McFarlane, 81), Denny Johnstone. (Lambros Thanailakis, 81).
The above information is gathered from the official Birmingham City website.
Today, Tuesday the 14th of July, saw the first pre-season game for the U21’s. The game was played at Wast Hills, as are all of the U21 games throughout the season. The opposition today was Leicester City.
Charlie Cooper, a player to watch for the future, looked lively throughout the game. He lacks the strength needed currently to succeed at a higher level but this comes with time. Cooper went close in the opening exchanges as his shot was cleared on the goal line.
Johnstone was also looking lively. Denny, who’s progress has been stunted in recent months, blazed over a couple of times in the first half but his movement was very good throughout.
Therefore, it was no surprise when Jones and Johnstone combined to put the Blues’ ahead. Jones slide the ball through to his team mate and then Johnston took it past the ‘keeper to stroke home. 1-0.
Just before half time, Townsend was called into action for the first time. I have nothing but praise for the ‘keeper as he never fails to impress me on U21 duty. This time he made a remarkable double save to keep Birmingham City’s lead in tact.
Jones and Johnstone were causing havoc. Another goal line clearance again prevented a Blues’ goal.
A host of changes at the break as well as the torrential rain that was battering the ground didn’t help. The foxes came out for the second half meaning business. They dominated the stats in the second half but were unable to create many chances due to the stellar performances along the back 4.
Just before the end, Johnstone and Jones combined again. Denny getting the second of the game after great build up play from Alex. It was against the run of play but the quality of defending meant that this scoreline was never in doubt.
2-0 to the Blues’ it finished. Johnstone and Jones’ partnership looked like they had been playing together for years. They knew where each other was at all times and the link up play between them was perfect. Cooper also had a fine game.
or and owner of this work as Birmingham City Football Club
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