Potts believes Under-21s will grow from Wycombe defeat
The under 21s head coach Steve Potts believes the lads will grow from the game against League One outfit Wycombe Wanderers last night.
After 16 games undefeated, the Development team were finally beaten in the Bristol Motors Trophy clash despite a mighty effort in the second half after going two down.
Potts believes Under-21s will grow from Wycombe defeat
The League team were pushed onto the back foot for long periods but despite reducing the score to 2-1 the Irons were finally beaten.
To have reached this stage of the competition was a mighty achievement in itself and as Potts suggests can only help the younger players in their development.
Despite the final result, there were many, many positives to take from the way the U21s battled back into the tie.
Potts was adamant in his opinion about where they can go from here after going one to one with a team currently in 16th place on 29 points in the league.
The lead coach explained: “I’ve said a lot that this tournament is a great experience for the boys, and it was the case again tonight…maybe for different reasons.
“It was a real taste of what League football is about. I think in the first five minutes they started quickly, and it could have been two or three [goals] for them.
“We got into the game, but I don’t think we really got going like we do and that is a credit to Wycombe. They made it really difficult for us.
“Parts for the second half were good, but it still wasn’t at the level we have been this season. Hopefully, the boys will take a lot from this game because it is not easy being a footballer.”
Trailing 2-0 at the interval, the lead coach was proud of the spirit shown in the second half.
Gideon Kodua’s effort on 58 minutes threatened to take the game to penalties, which the Hammers almost forced late with chances in additional time.
Potts, though, admitted he could not fault the effort of his side.
“I can’t criticise the boys because 16 games unbeaten is a fantastic run and it is always going to come to an end eventually,” he added.
“I hope they take on board what league football is all about, though. They know how difficult it can be and that wherever you play you are going to be tested and I thought they really were tested tonight.”