Southampton’s youngsters will be looking to bounce back in the U18 Premier League this week, with the visit of Leicester City to Staplewood Campus.
THE MATCH
Southampton vs Leicester City
U18 Premier League
Staplewood Campus
Saturday 17th October, 1pm GMT
It’s been a difficult start to the season for Paul Hardyman’s side, who are still looking for their first win of the new season after four games.
Their last outing saw a 2-0 defeat to south coast rivals Brighton & Hove Albion, also at Staplewood, with Todd Miller and Matt Everitt scoring the visitors’ goals during the first half.
Saturday’s opponents Leicester have had an even tougher start to the new campaign, having yet to pick up a point in their opening four games.
Last week saw the Foxes lose 4-2 at Norwich City, with Will Russ and Ben Nelson getting on the scoresheet for the visitors.
LAST MEETING
Saints and Leicester last met back in October 2019 and played just the once during 2019/20 before the season was curtailed.
The match, played out at Staplewood Campus, saw the visitors come away with a 3-2 win, despite Saints going 2-0 up.
Goals from Jayden Smith and Jack Turner meant Saints looked set for three points from the midday fixture.
But a double from Kaisy McAteer and a solo effort from Connor Barrett ultimately left Hardyman’s side with nothing.
MANAGER’S NOTES
On the threat of Leicester, Hardyman said: “They’re very direct and strong going forward. It certainly won’t be easy.
“No game is every easy in this division, so we’re looking forward to another tough test.
“We have a young squad at the moment, which has given the chance for first year scholars to come up and perform which is a fantastic opportunity.
“Training has been good. We’ve worked on physical bits as well as technical. Everyone is in good spirits which is what we want if they are to progress here.”
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