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Thursday 06 May 2010 Ryman Youth League, West Division
A fitting finale as the young Dons superbly outplayed runners up Ashford Town and cruised to a 4 - 0 win.
It was great to see all the squad attend the game for the last ever U18 game in the Ryman Youth League and to produce such a display was a bonus. The players played with great pride and as always a superb attitude. The first half was a joy to watch as AFC produced some breathtaking football on a bobbly pitch. The score at half time could have been seven or eight as AFC totally dominated play. The first goal came after 12 minutes as influential skipper Harry Knock whipped in a free kick that Callum Dunne smashed against the keeper from close range, the rebound fell to Ryan Thomas whose goalbound header was handled. Jake Hill stepped up to convert the penalty. Hutchinson then hit a post and had two further chances whilst Spencer also went close with a couple of efforts. The second goal came from a Ryan Thomas run and cross that found Spencer at the far post where he made no mistake in doubling the lead.
Half Time 2 - 0
Ashford town were more determined early in the second half but the Young Dons keeper and back four were in no mood to give anything away. A fine flowing move saw Callum Dunne score the goal of the game as he was put through after a five man move and he calmly slotted past the keeper into the bottom corner.
Hutchinson made way for Smith and Spencer for Bakhit as AFC continued the onslaught. Smith grabbed himself a goal as AFC broke away from defence the ball found its way to smith and his fine run ended with a shot into the bottom corner of the net. Wilkinson replaced Bearman late on as Ashford were reduced to ten men after a second bookable offence.
This was an emphatic win against a very good side and proved just how far some of the boys have come over the last few months. Since being told there will be no U18s next season the boys have stuck together and shown a fantastic attitude on and off the pitch. As manager i can not speak highly enough of this group of players who have remained dignified and produced some great displays, notably getting to the second round proper of the FA Youth cup. i am sure most of these boys will go on and have a good career in football. Thanks to all the boys for their effort this season and to Mark and Bob who both played a massive part in developing this group of players.
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