Bugbrooke St Michaels U18 3 AFC Rushden & Diamonds U18 2

Bugbrooke St. Michaels 3-2 AFC Rushden & Diamonds U18

Northants Senior Youth League

AFC Rushden & Diamonds U18s slipped to narrow defeat at Bugbrooke, in a game that was perhaps not as entertaining as the scoreline might suggest. The match was a warm-up for the Diamonds’ first ever FA Youth Cup tie, which will be played between the two clubs at the Dog & Duck on Monday 23^rd September.

The hosts got off to a great start, taking the lead with 5 minutes on the clock. The Rushden defence lost possession cheaply just outside their own box, with the ball being played through to Joe Howarth who scored with a good finish from the edge of the box.

The Badgers continued to press, but their momentum was broken up when captain Joe Wakelin picked up a nasty looking injury in the 14^th minute, and was taken to hospital. The club would like to wish Joe a full and speedy recovery.

Rushden upped their game after the unfortunate stoppage, but struggled to create much. One chance on 22 minutes saw an Omar Ghavami header brilliantly saved by the home ‘keeper. Eventually, the Diamonds did manage to force an equaliser though. Deep into first half stoppage time, a dangerous left wing free kick from Tommy Messinger went straight through the crowded penalty area and found it’s way into the bottom corner with no one managing to get a touch on it.

HT: Bugbrooke St. Michaels 1-1 AFC Rushden & Diamonds U18

Bugbrooke again got off to a good start after the break, scoring within 2 minutes of the restart. A right wing free kick flicked off the head of Ryan Bhatti, and was met by Jamie Inwood who scored with a brilliant far post header.

The impressive Howarth went close to doubling his tally on 70 minutes but curled his shot just wide of the post, before the Diamonds had a strong penalty appeal for handball turned down.

With 8 minutes remaining Rushden equalised for a second time. Good play between Matty Smith and Ben Roche saw the ball worked in to Savvas Hamp who smashed the ball into the top corner from 15 yards.

But with the visitors thinking they had snatched a draw, the Badgers won it with just a minute of normal time remaining. Elliott White hit a powerful shot from 20 yards which drew a good save from Connor Brown, but Dan Powell reacted quickest to pounce on the rebound and tap home from close range.

FT: Bugbrooke St. Michaels 3-2 AFC Rushden & Diamonds U18

The Diamonds U18s are next in action on Wednesday 4^th September when they take on Irchester United at Alfred Street.

Attendance: Approx. 40

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