U18 Report: Norwich 1-4 Saints

Paul Hardyman’s side were forced to come from behind, and with fellow fourth spot challengers Brighton also triumphing over West Ham in their respective fixture, it was just as well they did.

Norwich were ahead inside 12 minutes - winger Josh Martin with the goal - but defiant Saints were unlikely to relinquish their top four finish without a fight.

Roland Idowu levelled proceedings nine minutes after the Canaries’ opener, before second-half strikes from Kornelius Hansen, Christian Norton and Callum Watts sealed the deal.

Maximum spoils puts the gloss on a particularly impressive second half of the season, and secures fourth place - behind London-based trio Chelsea, Tottenham and champions Arsenal.

Finding themselves one down after a slow start, Idowu was the first youngster in red and white to take initiative for the visitors.

He seized upon a counter-attack from a corner in the 21st minute, and was equally as clinical with his finish, powering the ball beyond Daniel Barden to restore parity.

The wind and rain were wreaking havoc with the playing conditions, making the contribution of stopper Jack Bycroft, who was needed towards the end of the first half, that much more impressive.

Resistant, but also patient, Saints' quality shone through thereafter, netting three second-half goals to cruise justifiably to victory. 

Hansen’s deflected shot edged his side in front in the 55th minute, backed up by a well-worked Norton finish in the 77th - with Rio Glean earning plaudits for his contribution.

The points were secure eight minutes from time, as substitute Callum Watts found the net with his first touch of the game, arriving late on the edge of the area and calmly side-footing home.