The PGFC Academy were edged out 4-3 by Balcatta Etna FC in the NPLWA on Saturday despite mounting a spirited second-half fightback at the Sam Kerr Football Centre.
The youngsters found themselves 2-0 down at the break, with Ben Hinshelwood converting from the spot after Khoa Ngo was penalised for a high boot in the box and Shogo Osawa adding the second via a near-post header.
To their credit, however, Glory roared back after the break, scoring three times in the space of 15 minutes.
Seb Despotovski claimed the first, rattling home the rebound after Samuel Barry’s cross-shot had been parried by Connor Campbell, before Barry rounded off a fine move by sliding in an inch-perfect pass from Jaylan Pearman.
Shell-shocked Balcatta then found themselves trailing as Khoa Ngo started his 18th birthday celebrations a day early by applying a composed, side-footed finish from a challenging angle.
At that stage Glory seemed well on course to secure a vital second win in as many games, but they squandered several fine chances to make it 4-2 and the visitors made them pay for their profligacy.
Hinshelwood headed in his second of the game to make it 3-3 and with five minutes left, Liam Hudson’s shot was inadvertently helped over the line by the unfortunate Tadiwanashe Kuzamba.
Earlier in the day, goals from Max Naylor (2) and TadiswaShaun Mutyavaviri eased the Under-18s to a 3-0 win, while the Under-20s fought out a 3-3 draw with Alfie Knight, Louis Sollitt and Tinomuonga Mutema on target.
Junior Academy Results
U13s W 1-0 v Perth RedStar
U14s W 2-1 v Perth RedStar
U15s D 4-4 v Bayswater City
U16s D 2-2 v Bayswater City
All three senior teams return to NPL WA action next Saturday away at Armadale SC.
The 18s will get things underway at Alfred Skeet Reserve at 11am, followed by the 20s at 1pm and the First Team at 3pm.
Do get along and support the lads if you can.
(picture courtesy of Tom McCarthy)
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