Star Wilson thwarts young Latics

Photo: Paul Sterritt

HIGH JUMP: Dylan King (left), of Athletic under-18s, climbs above the Stags defence

ATHLETIC threw the kitchen sink at Mansfield, but ended up slipping to a 2-1 defeat that sees their opponents move three points clear at the top of the North-East section of the EFL Youth Alliance.

Stags goalkeeper Sam Wilson was the star of the show, with Athletic's youngsters unable to beat him other than through a well-worked Brad Kay goal.

A smart finish from Jason Law from the edge of the penalty area levelled matters at Chapel Road just before the half-hour.

That was after Mason Fawns and Brendy Glackin had both been denied by Wilson, but Mansfield started the second half well and edged in front thanks to Law's second.

Despite enjoying plenty of pressure after that, Athletic simply could not find the net.

And with four of the last five games in the season away from home, Tony Philliskirk reckons his side may have to win every single one to stand a chance of claiming the title.

"We did everything but score at times and their goalkeeper made some great saves, including an unbelievable one from Chinedu Uche," said Philliskirk, who welcomed back Ryan Leonard for the latter stages after a long lay-off.

"On another day we could have had four or five goals. As coaching staff, we couldn't ask any more form the players."

Athletic's youth team travel to Hartlepool on Saturday (noon kick-off).

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