Derby County’s Under-18s reached the Semi-Finals of the Premier League Cup with a 4-0 victory over Fulham at Moor Farm Training Ground on Wednesday afternoon.
Two goals from midfielder Owen Eames and late strikes from Jerome Richards and James Ward saw the Under-18s book their spot in the final four of the competition.
Derby took the lead after 31 minutes of the tie courtesy of Eames after being teed up by Jerome Richards in what was a strong first half display.
Eames added his and the Rams’ second goal of the afternoon on 76 minutes, with Justin Oguntolu claiming the assist.
Richards and substitute James Ward, after being set up by Richards, added two more goals in the final moments to seal a convincing victory over the Cottagers.
Next up for Danny Maye's Under-18s is a clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Moor Farm Training Ground on Saturday 15th February (11am kick-off).
Derby County Under-18s: Price (GK), Richards, Gill, Canoville, Marriott, Osayande, Eames (Hodges 90), Tola, Ebuka Agbawodikeizu (Mintus 66), Agustien, Oguntolu (Ward 81).
Substitutes Not Used: Rees (GK), Connell-Webster.
Post-Match Reaction
Under-18 Lead Coach Danny Maye said: “Today was our most complete performance of the season.
“The only area we should have been better was in front of goal. That being said, we had long periods of control with the ball.
“We also stayed focused and stopped Fulham countering when they won it back. Our pressing and counter pressing was excellent.
“Similar to our 3-3 draw at Stoke City on Saturday, we created a lot through the middle and showed real creativity in the final third.
“We just lacked a little in key moments in front of goal. However, we kept going all game kept our standards high with no complacency. The players should be delighted to join the Under-17s in the Semi-Finals of the Premier League Cup this season. These pressured games create brilliant learning opportunities for the next level.”
