A sensational run by Perth Glory’s Youth Team has shown no sign of abating following a 1-0 victory against Gold Coast that ensured the club’s fifth successive win and lifted them to second on the National Youth League ladder.
A sensational run by Perth Glory-s Youth Team has shown no sign of abating following a 1-0 victory against Gold Coast that ensured the club-s fifth successive win and lifted them to second on the National Youth League ladder.
Perth-s stellar form has come on the back of a dedicated team effort which would be particularly pleasing for Coach Gareth Naven who has shaped the WA youngsters development with meticulous detail.
The only goal of the game came in somewhat strange circumstances with Glory skipper Steve Hesketh volleying his shot against the crossbar only for it to cannon into the back of Gold Coast keeper Jerrad Tyson-s and then fall across the goal line.
Despite the referee-s awarding it as an own-goal, Hesketh was worthy of the credit and made good use of a terrific free kick from Sam Mitchinson who picked out his skipper in the six yard box.
While not a typically classic strike it proved to be the decisive moment of a match in which Perth enjoyed the bulk of possession and chances.
The pressure of Glory-s defence across the park allowed United-s craftsmen no time to work with the ball forcing them into a scrappy mistake riddled first-half. Conversely the West Aussies made plenty of opportunities early, but failed to capitalise on excellent lead-up play.
Tommy Amphlett created a one-on-one for Cameron Edwards who could only sky the ball over the bar. The two then reversed roles but again were left to rue not being able to direct the ball into the back of the net.
Gold Coast started to play some better football in the second half and looked to be forging back into the match but their task was made even more difficult when reduced ten men. Richard Greer was given his marching orders just on an hour into the game, when he received a second yellow card for backchat after earlier being penalised for an illegal tackle.
Perth weren-t about to let the United side steal back a goal and pressed hard to double their advantage. Edwards and the ever dangerous Ludovic Boi were menacing up-front and only a string of desperate saves from Tyson kept the visitors at bay.
The win giving Perth their first victory against the Gold Coast youngsters who had taken all the points in their previous two encounters this season.
The Glory will now look forward to returning to ME Bank Stadium to play a curtain raiser on Boxing Day (kick-off 2.00pm).
National Youth League 2009/10 – Rd16
Gold Coast United 0
Perth Glory 1 (Jerrad Tyson (og) 26-)
Saturday, 19 December 2009 at Southport Tigers, Southport
