AFC Fylde report on Under 23 game

[Marney&Mee]

Coasters boss Jim Bentley gave the chance to the AFC Fylde squad to impress today, as plenty of the squad were involved in the Lancashire County Cup against Burnley U23’s.

Only former Claret defender Alex Whitmore remained from Saturday’s line-up at Nantwich Town, with the boss giving players valuable minutes against competitive opposition.

Bentley’s men lined up against a strong Burnley U23 side boosted by the inclusion of England international and former Premier League winner Danny Drinkwater on his return from injury.

It was the Coasters who started brightest, however clear chances were few and far between. Mark Yeates’ free-kick from 25 yards out clipping the post being the highlight of the opening exchanges.

Mid-way through the opening period young Swedish striker Joel Mumbongo had Burnley’s first significant attempt on goal with a powerful strike flying just over the visitors’ crossbar.

The young Clarets did manage to break the deadlock on the cusp of the interval, with winger Mace Goodridge sliding the ball through to Joe McGlynn who finished confidently.

Burnley struck again after the interval with McGlynn breaking into the box and finishing calmly to the left of the keeper to double his tally and his side’s advantage.

A third came quickly after the restart, with Goodridge again providing, this time for Mumbongo who arrived into the box in time to meet the ball and finish confidently.

The game settled after the quick-fire Burnley goals with Fylde getting on the ball and threatening more regularly.

The Coasters nearly got rewards for their efforts when Sheldon Green’s smart dummy fell to Mark Yeates who was brought down when he stepped inside to shoot.

Yeates stepped up from the spot but was denied by keeper Jensen who dived down to his right.

Heading towards the final 10 minutes Fylde did get a reward for their efforts when Nick Haughton struck impressively from the edge of the area after some slick build up play.

The hosts held on for the victory in an enjoyable game, which would have been very beneficial to both the players and the coach staff.