Young guns respond to Philliskirk’s tough talk

ATHLETIC youth coach Tony Philliskirk took plenty of encouragement from his side’s 3-2 win at Rochdale in the FA Youth Cup first round — but insisted his young charges still have a lot to learn.

Trailing 2-1 at half-time, there were some strong words in the visitors’ dressing room before Kyle Riley’s brace ensured they left Spotland with the bragging rights.

Earlier Sam Fitzgerald’s opener had been cancelled out by goals from Rochdale pair Godwin Akbadaki and Ola Rabiu.

Philliskirk said: “We started well and went in front early on, but once Rochdale came back at us with two goals some mistakes crept in and I think the lads’ heads dropped a bit.

“Our goalkeeper, Luke Simpson, kept us in the tie with a couple of great saves and half-time probably came at a good time for us.

“We had a discussion about how much the lads actually wanted this, and whether or not they had the drive and character to get back into the game.

“Kyle produced two great strikes to put us back on the front foot, but then we were sitting deep, panicking and lashing at clearances.

“It comes down to game management, which is something that needs to improve.”

Athletic entertain York City or Macclesfield Town in the second round later this month.

Philliskirk added: “We are delighted to still be in the competition and look forward to the next match.

“It is a big achievement for this young group. We started the game at Rochdale with six first-year scholars and they will pick things up all the time.”