Stuart Allan U20's Update

We are 3 games in and whilst we’d like to have more points to our name, we’ve seen some real positives in our performances. 

We played in front of 165 spectators in our first league game, which was just sensational. Our first half performance levels were good and I felt we were a little unfortunate to be 2-1 down at the break to be honest. Second half, the Hi-Hi showed their class, however we probably didn’t do ourselves justice with our own levels.

We headed to play Syngenta for our second game. We deserved something from the game based on what we put into it. The goals we scored, we had to work really hard for, Gregor Goldie & Daniel Hall have scored two great goals. Unfortunately the goals we’ve given away, we can defend better, we’ll struggle to win a game conceding 3 goals in a match. 

Last Friday, we were superb. Their equaliser is a worldly, 30 yard free-kick in the top corner, in stoppage time. Jake Henderson has not had a great deal to do in the game – that’s maybe our luck at the minute. The lads gave me everything, Ally Zochowski, Ross Buckley, Aaron Turnbull, Jake Douther & Alby Lorimer (to name a few), came into the side and were outstanding. 

Last Friday we had eight 17 year olds, four 16 year olds, and a 15 year old playing. Calum Richards, Daniel Hall & Gregor Goldie have made their first team debut, with Jake Douther and Adam Collin also having made a squad. There are so many positives to take and we are only in September! 

I have been in youth football for nearly 8 years. Young players are going to make mistakes, that’s part of the learning process.  We are creating chances, scoring 6 goals in 3 league games. Majority of our squad live in Dunbar, if they don’t, they’ve played at the Colts for years previously. 

95% (24 players) of this squad have at least 2 years at U20’s football. 65% (16 players) of our squad have at least 3 years at this level – the group has so much potential. This is a project.

I really don’t know much about Pumpherston in truth – but I have no doubt they’ll be decent. If we win, we have a chance of facing U20’s sides who have a first team in the SPFL, Stirling Albion, Albion Rovers, East Fife, Kelty Hearts or FC Edinburgh etc. As players, you should always want to test yourself against the best players you can. 

If you can, I’d be grateful if you can help pack out New Countess Park on Friday. It means a lot to us seeing members of the community getting behind these young local lads. Can’t thank you enough for your support so far. 

Take care

Stuart AllanDUFC