Development squad impress in defeat
’s superb free-kick provided the highlight for AFC Wimbledon’s Under-21 development squad in a narrow defeat at Southend United on Tuesday afternoon.Tom Beere
The 18-year-old, who was prolific for Wimbledon’s first-team in pre-season, bent his free-kick around the wall in fine style to put his side 1-0 up, but Southend eventually triumphed 3-2.
(picture above by Trevor Williams) keeping it tight at the back, Southend equalised just after the break and they were 2-1 in front shortly afterwards.Kieron TarbieThough Wimbledon were worthy leaders at half-time with the likes of
then had a chance to win it, but he shot just wide, before the hosts snatched victory in the final minute.Harlen Basker made it 2-2 from the penalty spot. Substitute Youssouf Bamba helped Wimbledon draw level when he was fouled in the box after an excellent piece of skill and Chace Jacquart
was very encouraged by the performance of his inexperienced side.Shaun NorthDespite defeat, Under-21 Development Coach
“There were lots of positives to take and we played better than we did last week,” said Shaun. “I could not fault any of the players in terms of their commitment. It was just disappointing to lose in the last minute after we had put so much effort in. It was a very good performance, but it showed that there are one or two things that we need to work on during training.”
AFC Wimbledon Under-21s: Billy Bishop, Kieron Tarbie, Oluseyi Daley, Chris Vleitinck, Charlie Fayers, Harry Cooksey (Nas Majeed), Chace Jacquart, Dan Pearse (Harlen Basker), Tom Beere, George Oakley (Rob Switon), Youssouf Bamba.