Defenders raise their game

Our weekly Athletic round up

IT IS a measure of Athletic’s recent progress that they were disappointed to be held to a goalless draw at Burnley in the North-West Conference of the Football League Youth Alliance.

Athletic, who were leaking goals at an alarming rate at the start of the season, produced a solid defensive display against one of the Conference’s top teams.

And in a tight game, Athletic had the better openings.

Kirk Millar headed over from four yards, James Tarkowski planted a header straight at the Clarets ’keeper and, in the dying minutes, Andy Crompton fired past the post from eight yards.

Tony Philliskirk was delighted with the display of the Athletic team – for whom Tom Eaves and Greg Kidd returned after injury lay-offs – but thought composure in front of goal was lacking.

Athletic’s youngsters are at home to Blackpool at Chapel Road on Saturday (11am).