The Trial(ist)s and Tribulations of a Youth Reporter

Last updated : 22 July 2008 By Andy Ashworth
Rob Turner - scored the goal after coming on as a substitute
Reporting on the result is the easy part, but as for informing about the lads taking part, well that is another story. With the cup game at Wigan and a potentially hectic week ahead in mind the team was made up of a number of U-16 players and a handful of trialists. Lewis Craig was the only 2nd year apprentice in the starting line-up with Matt Lomas, Nik Kudiersky, Dil Chaggar and keeper Stef Ritchie the 1st years used. There were also three of next year's likely intake starting with the other lads, we can only assume, on trial.

The game began quickly with Oldham finding the back of the net in the opening couple of minutes. The goal though was ruled out for a foul as the centre forward took a ride on the back of Trialist A. By the ten minute mark they had a legitimate goal on the board as we failed to deal with a free kick into the box and the centre forward stabbed home. Five minutes later the Latics hit the bar with Ritchie stranded as we struggle to cope with the pressure.

Our only real chance came through a Chaggar shot from 25 yards which the keeper saw wide. A Liam Newman Shot was charged down virtually before it had left his foot and so the half came to a close with us having not tested the keeper.

The second half began with changes for us. Chris Lynch replaced Kudiersky and Trialist B swapped positions with Trialist C (centre forward and right wing). We looked a little more settled as the game progressed though were still not creating chances. Trialist D then entered the fray (while I pulled out some more hair) alongside Rob Turner, who took the captains armband.

However, before the changes could make a positive impact for us we found ourselves 2 down as an Oldham forward found himself unmarked and onside around the penalty spot and he gave Ritchie no chance.

With around 10 minutes left on the clock we finally hit the target, and lo and behold it gave us a goal. The physical presence of Turner had clearly had an unsettling effect on the Oldham keeper who was less than convincing as Turner headed home a left wing cross from our U-16 left back.

However, it was too little too late and we couldn't find the equaliser.

And now for the very detailed team line up :-

Stef Ritchie, Matt Lomas, Jake 'Macca', Trialist A, Nik Kudiersky (Chris Lynch), Dil Chaggar, Oliver Devenney, Lewis Craig (Trialist D), Trialist B, Trialist C, Liam Newman (Rob Turner)

Subs not used :- Err, not sure as the entire youth roster was on the touchline…

Good luck in the cup on Monday lads.