Derby County’s Under 18s started their Premier League Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw away at Premier League – South side Swansea City.
Jack Stretton put the young Rams ahead midway through the first half after a well-worked exchange between him and Jayden Mitchell-Lawson to put him through on goal, where he fired his shot past Swansea goalkeeper Alex Lang.
However, the hosts hit back to equalise late in the first-half through Kees De Boer as he finished off Mason Jones-Thomas’ cross with a side-footed half-volley from close range.
In a game that Derby had the majority of the chances in, the Rams searched for a winner and Jayden Bogle came close on two occasions in the second half.
His first effort ten minutes from time forced a good save from Lang, before his free kick in second half stoppage time cannoned off of the woodwork.
What’s To Come…
Derby’s next game in the Premier League Cup is against fellow Premier League – North side West Bromwich Albion, who lost their opening match in Group A 1-0 against Everton.
The young Rams’ draw at Landore Training Ground leaves them in second position in Group A.
Justin Walker’s and Rory Delap’s side now turn their attention back on to the Premier League – North and their next fixture is away at Blackburn Rovers on Saturday 23rd September.
Derby are currently third in the league table, whilst Rovers are sat in ninth place.
Next Five…
Blackburn Rovers U18s Vs Derby County U18s – Saturday 23rd September (kick-off: 12:30pm)
Derby County U18s Vs Middlesbrough U18s – Saturday 30th September (kick-off: 1pm)
West Bromwich Albion U18s Vs Derby County U18s – Saturday 14th October (kick-off: 11am)
Stoke City U18s Vs Derby County U18s – Saturday 21st October (kick-off: 11am)
Derby County U18s Vs West Bromwich Albion U18s – Saturday 4th November (kick-off 11am)
Words by Jonty Colman
Images by Harry Marshall
