Philliskirk hails ‘massive achievement’ as U-18s clinch cup

Photo: -VINCENT BROWN-

WELL DONE, SON: Academy manager Tony Philliskirk congratulates Athletic youngster Rahul Parmer.

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TONY Philliskirk hailed his band of young stars as Athletic's under-18s hammered highly-rated MK Dons to win silverware with a swagger.

Dominant from the start - though grateful to goalkeeper Paul Tyson for outstanding saves including a first-half penalty - goals from Ben Grant (two), Devante Jacobs and Callum Etches lit up SportsDirect.com Park.

Athletic's 4-0 victory made it two trophies in two seasons following last year's Lancashire FA Youth Cup final victory over Blackpool.

But for Philliskirk this triumph in the national final of the Football League Youth Alliance Cup was a major feather in the club's cap: “It’s a massive achievement, to win that trophy,” said the proud coach.

“There are probably only six teams that can win the FA Youth Cup, but there are more than 70 at our level, all even, that could win this one. We shouldn't underestimate that achievement; it’s fantastic for the players, their families and the club.”

Captain Jack Tuohy lifted the trophy who, with Jacobs and injured Danny Byrnes, has been offered professional terms for next season. But for players like Grant, Tyson and Etches, this was a final hurrah in an Athletic shirt.

Tuohy and Jacobs could now get a run-out against Peterborough in the final game of the club’s Sky Bet League One campaign on Sunday.

Manager Dean Holden, who has been linked with the vacant manager’s post at Peterborough United this week, watched the game, but Philliskirk admits it’s Holden’s choice.

“Hopefully, this is a sign we are doing things right here. We work hard and press. The MK Dons philosophy is fantastic but we pressed high and they weren’t used to it.”

twitter: @Matt_Chambers_