Bright start for U-23s

Words: ACFC Media

Friday 2 April 2021

AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Auckland City FC U-23 registered an historic first up competitive win after they downed Manukau United 2-0 at the Croatian Cultural club in West Auckland today.

Two first half goals from Kristoff Muller gave the Navy Blues reserves a comfortable margin of victory although coach Kris Bright said a lot of work was required to get his side to where they need to be.

"I thought we controlled the game quite well at times and there were a few good individual performances which is what we like to see. The aim of this group of players is to push for places in the first team so its good to have that alignment.

"As a team we have a lot to work on but individually there were good performances. I couldn't ask for more than the attitude they've got. They're a lot closer to reaching the first team than before and that's the carrot for them to aim for.

"What can we do to push Adam Mitchell, Cam Howieson or Emiliano Tade out of the team - that's the aim of the players in this team to push established players all the way.

"It all depends on what Jose and the first team require, maybe one or two can push on to the bench, but I was happy and I can't fault a 2-0 win and I don't like changing too many players and hopefully I have the same players for Monday," he said.

Monday's game with Northern Rovers is set for a 12.30pm kick off at McFetridge Park.

Ends

Match Result
Lotto NRFL Premier Division
Friday 2 April 2021
Auckland City FC 2 (Kristoff MULLER 10', 35')
Manukau United 0
HT: 2-0.

U-23: 1. Finn DOCKERTY (GK), 4. Louie DANIELSON, 5. Anthony DUNCAN (11. Jeremiah RUAWHARE 70'), 6. Ilham HAMEEDI, 7. Brooklyn HEATH (c), 8. Alex SMITH (19. Conan REDDY 75'), 9. Finn McCRACKEN, 10. Kristoff MULLER, 14. Dempsey THOMAS< 15. Marcel STODDARD< 21. Addison STEWART (22. Samuel CLEGG 70').

SUBS NOT USED: 24. Hayden COOPER (GK).

COACH: Kris BRIGHT.

CAUTIONS: 4. Louie DANIELSON, 5. Anthony DUNCAN, 19. Conan REDDY, 22. Smauel CLEGG.