At a glance
- Albion Under-18s thrash Fulham 5-0 at home
- Five different scorers seal record breaking win
- Steven Menzies praises response after West Ham defeat
Brighton’s under-18 side returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion on Saturday as they swept aside Fulham with a ruthless 5-0 victory at the American Express Elite Football Performance Centre.
After a frustrating spell that saw Albion held by Birmingham City before suffering a late defeat against West Ham, the young Seagulls responded with a performance full of composure, confidence and attacking flair. Five different scorers capped off a dominant afternoon that underlined the promise within the club’s academy ranks.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
Fulham initially proved difficult opponents with the visitors enjoying spells of possession during the opening stages. Brighton however remained disciplined and gradually took control of proceedings before striking just before the half-hour mark.
Brook Smith won the penalty after being brought down inside the area and Younes Ibrahim calmly stepped up to dispatch the spot-kick and hand Albion the breakthrough.
The hosts doubled their advantage ten minutes later following an incisive move involving Ibrahim, Henry Kasvosve and Theo Outen. Smith’s effort rattled the post after he had been played through on goal but Cristiano Anah reacted quickest to smash home the rebound into the top corner.
Read More: Brighton Under-21s Eye Stunning Trophy Double After Spurs Triumph
Albion Under-18s Turn Up the Pressure
Brighton emerged after the interval with the same attacking intent and quickly tightened their grip on the contest. Bode Newnham-Reeve was at the heart of the action as he burst away down the flank before picking out Zac Brennan for a simple finish to make it 3-0.
Just four minutes later Newnham-Reeve turned provider once more when he teed up Adam Brett, who converted from close range to leave Fulham reeling.
There was still time for a fifth as Kasvosve won a penalty late on before confidently converting himself to complete a commanding afternoon for Albion.
Menzies Praises Character and Composure
Interim under-18 head coach Steven Menzies praised both the response and maturity shown by his side after last week’s disappointment.
“It was an excellent performance and result. It was a great reaction after we conceded so late to lose last week against West Ham. The result sees us reach 46 points for the season which is the highest ever for a Brighton under-18 side in Premier League South.”
Menzies also highlighted the tactical discipline shown by his players as they adapted to Fulham’s early approach before eventually taking charge of the game.
“We started the game without much of the ball. Fulham moved into a back three and rotated a lot. We held our shape to regain the ball at the right times before taking control of the game. As the game went on you could see us growing in confidence.”
Despite the scoreline Menzies admitted there were moments when Fulham threatened to shift the momentum early in the second half before Brighton’s third goal settled any nerves.
“Fulham started the second half well and threatened our box. They had a half penalty shout turned down and had momentum so our third goal came at the perfect time. We had a fairly controlled finish to the game. The last meaningful action was a save from Liam Doyle ensuring we keep a clean sheet and it was a reflection of the team effort to secure the result.”
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