Following their double-winning campaign last time out, United’s latest batch of young starlets began their 2023/24 warm-up matches on Saturday against Bristol Rovers.
Whilst the senior side were taking on Bristol City’s first team, the Under 18s faced a similarly tough test against their Rovers counterparts. However, it was to the Young Gulls’ credit that during a keenly-fought first half they were level-pegging with their opponents at 1-1, before The Pirates eventually ran out clear winners in the second period by a 5-1 margin.
Under-18s Head Coach Ryan Dickson though, was delighted with the test, and the spirit shown by his side.
“It was a good experience for the boys, and thank you to Bristol Rovers for arranging the game,” said Dickson.
“Our pre-season doesn’t start until the 22nd, so we just took up first-years and trialists, so that they can get a feel of the standard that’s needed.
“They did really well. It was 1-1 in the first half, and then we made a lot of changes, and lost the second half 4-0. Overall we were pleased with the fitness levels, considering we haven’t done anything yet, and the standard of the boys being able to compete at that level.”