Confident Joel takes age rise in his stride

DEPLETED Athletic under-18s earned a creditable 0-0 draw at Preston in the Football League Youth Alliance North-West Conference.

Under-16s goalkeeper Joel Coleman made his debut at this level in the absence of injured pair Dale Connor and Luke Simpson, and he displayed no signs of nerves on his way to a clean sheet.

The Lilywhites enjoyed the lion’s share of possession in the first half, although Kyle Riley went close for the visitors when his close-range effort was blocked.

It was a different story after the break with Tony Philliskirk’s lads dominating proceedings.

Ryan Burns hit the crossbar, Sam Fitzgerald’s shot was saved and the rebound flew wide, while Riley and Jack Laird also threatened to break the deadlock.

Centre-half Glenn Belezika impressed at the heart of the Athletic back-line. Athletic’s under-14 centre of excellence side lost 1-0 to Wrexham despite bossing the match.

Chances were spurned and Athletic twice hit the woodwork before a defensive mix-up led to Wrexham’s winner.

Athletic responded positively and created several more clear-cut opportunities, but could not force the elusive equaliser their play deserved.