Fulham U18’s terrific recent run came to an abrupt end at London Colney on Saturday morning as they slumped to a disappointing defeat at the hands of runaway group leaders Arsenal.
The Arsenal youngsters, coached by former Gunners defender Steve Bould, are now a resounding 19 points clear at the top of Group A. The Whites never really recovered from the concession of an early goal – with Luke Freeman punishing some slack defending to put the young Gunners ahead on nine minutes. Oguzhan Ozyakup doubled Arsenal’s lead ten minutes later with a penalty and, although an own goal brought Fulham back into the contest, any hopes of parity vanished just moments later.
Only a minute after conceding, Arsenal added a third through the lively Benik Afobe, who shrugged off a couple of would-be tacklers before driving a shot past Wes Fotheringham. The home side added two more goals after the break with Ozyakup adding his second with a clever finish and, just before full time, Nigel Neita scored on his home debut for the Arsenal youngsters.
Gary Brazil will hope that his young charges can get back to winning ways when MK Dons come to Motspur Park on Saturday. The game will kick off at 11.30am.
