Three Fulham youngsters made telling contributions as England’s under 18s won a five-goal thriller against Australia this afternoon at the Lisbon International Tournament.
Head coach Neil Ryan rang the changes after the Young Lions rescued a late draw against Norway in their tournament opener. Striker Aaron Loupalo-Bi started the Norwegian game but came off the bench for the final half hour today, whilst winger Lemar Gordon and midfielder Chibby Nwoko – second half substitutes against the Norwegians – started. The Fulham pair posed problems for the Australian defence and England took a two-goal lead through a well-taken brace from Crystal Palace forward Zach Marsh.
The Socceroos fought back to go in level at half time as Max Caputo brought them back into the contest before Marcus Younis levelled matters. Ryan turned to his bench and England scored another late goal – this time through Watford striker Adrian Blake in the final minute of normal time – to clinch a breathless victory. England round off their tournament against hosts Portugal on Tuesday night.
