Nomads newly formed under 18’s faced heartbreak in their first ever competitive game as they were defeated 3-2 by Prestwich Heys in the FA youth cup. The hosts, who will be playing in the Premier division this season, scored two goals late on to deny Nomads the win that their play deserved, and to be fair, had looked on the cards for most of the game. Nomads understandably started slowly but settled into the game and were playing good football and matching the Heys team in most areas but were soon to go behind when Heys number 9 muscled his way past 2 defenders before slotting past Ben Craughwell. The young Nomads were not deterred by this though, and if anything, it gave them more purpose and they continued to put pressure on the hosts and dominate the possession. Heys however, were dangerous on the break and had a real outlet on the left hand side but Nomads defence worked hard to snuff out any attacks and the visitors were soon level when Daniel Stevenson was brought down in the box and Louis Quinn sent the keeper the wrong way. Nomads finished the half the stronger and but for 2 very good saves from the Heys keeper right at the end, could have gone in 2 or 3 up.
The second half was similar to the first, Heys real threat was the pace and ability of the left winger and the strength of their number 9. Nomads however were playing the better football and went into the lead when Daniel Stevenson played a 1-2 with the Heys post and netted at the 2nd attempt. Nomads were worth their lead but had to be careful of the hosts as they pushed back looking for the equaliser. It became a bit scrappy as Nomads tried to hold the lead and Heys tried desperately to get back into the game and it was two late goals that would decide it in the hosts favour. The equaliser came when a defensive header reached the number 9 who hooked it back over his head to net for the second time in the match. It looked as though we would have to brace ourselves for extra time but a 30 yard strike in the dying minutes from the hosts midfielder soon changed that. Despite Nomads trying all they could to get back on terms, it was not to be and Heys took the game 3-2.
It was a very good squad performance from our youngsters yesterday and we go forward with confidence into a very tough first league game at home against Bootle at the weekend. Congratulations to Prestwich Heys on the win and best of luck in the next round and for the season ahead.
