Coach Michael Hamilton sums up progress
AFC Wimbledon just missed out on top spot and progression from the U-16 Football League Competitive group stage after an encouraging season so far.
The U-16s held top spot before Christmas after an impressive 3-1 win against Stevenage, but victory for Leyton Orient against Peterborough meant that the young Dons had to settle for second place.
With only group winners progressing to the national semi-finals, even an impressive unbeaten record wasn’t enough to take the Dons through.
"Our last competitive game was a 3-1 win over Stevenage, on 5 December, which put us top for the last month, and we were waiting on the Orient v Peterborough game for confirmation of our league finish. This was postponed until after Christmas due to the weather so there was a bit of a wait. We offer congratulations to Orient and good luck to them in the next stage. They have every chance of winning the tournament as they are a very strong, dynamic side. Michael Hamilton, Lead Youth Phase Coach (U13 – U16) said:
“The U-16 fixtures follow the U-18 league schedule, but only selected games have the scores recorded as competitive, which is agreed at the start of season. The boys are naturally disappointed, but we are pleased with how we’ve progressed since the start of the season and there are positives to be highlighted. Out of 38 teams across the UK at category three academy level, we have the joint best defensive record and we are one of only three teams to remain unbeaten.’’