Sam Hudson drops ‘toothless’ verdict after Portsmouth U18s defeat
Sam Hudson has assessed the difference in playing against a senior men’s team as Portsmouth Under-18s were beaten by Moneyfields.
The academy lead coach, speaking to the Portsmouth FC official website [19 November], explained how the 3-0 defeat in the second round of the Portsmouth Divisional FA Cup on Tuesday provided an alternative test for the players’ development.
The oldest player in the development squad side was overage goalkeeper Toby Steward, still just 19, who donned the captain’s armband, and Hudson acknowledged his side looked toothless at times.
“We looked toothless on the ball, either because of taking poor touches or giving possession away far too easily,” Hudson admitted.
“You can’t do anything about the physical advantage the other side will have when you’re facing a men’s team and so have to find a way to deal with that and learn how to win the game.
“It’s why we like to enter these competitions because it’s a test you don’t really get at academy level. Our players can see where they’re lacking if they want to progress in their careers and play senior football.”
Portsmouth Academy get rare experience of senior opposition
For Portsmouth Academy to enter the local cup competition is definitely a benefit for the longer term – the physical battles against hardened senior non-league opponents will rattle the cage.
With Pompey still without an Under-21 outfit, these opportunities are the rare ones the scholars receive, likewise with youngsters like Steward who have enjoyed very productive spells out on loan.
The U18s are developing well, and it’s just a shame they could not have progressed further in the tournament, but it certainly acts as an eye-opener to supporters who demand players of such tender age are thrown into a first-team environment when senior players dip in form.
Whether you are for or against the blend of U21 academy sides with lower-ranked first-teams in the EFL Trophy and recently formed National League Cup, there are benefits in exposing these young players to senior action.
And especially considering many of Hudson’s charges are still just 16 and 17, it is a physical demand which will later stand them in good stead.
In other Portsmouth news, John Mousinho is “devastated” by another cruel injury setback.
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