Beaglehole: We Were Outstanding
- Development Squad manager Steve Beaglehole reflects on a 1-0 success at Carlisle
- Leicester City emerged from Cumbria with a deserved victory in the Checkatrade Trophy
- Layton Ndukwu's solitary 19th minute effort was the difference at Brunton Park
- Beaglehole commends his young players for their effort against Football League opposition
Layton Ndukwu’s strike in the 19th minute sealed all three points for the youthful Foxes at Brunton Park, a result which gives them a real chance of progression.
Against Sky Bet League 2 opposition, Beaglehole’s side matched the aggression of Keith Curle’s hosts and were deserved victors in a hotly-contested affair.
“We gave the boys objectives and we said in the team meeting that a clean sheet would be difficult but achievable because we have some good players in there,” Beaglehole said.
“We told them that if they could keep a clean sheet, it would be the best result of the season. We said the same thing at half-time when we were 1-0 ahead.
“In the last 10 minutes it became a real battle, they had powerful chaps playing. The way we defended, I thought they were absolutely superb."
Beaglehole was thrilled with the overall performance of his side, in particular the displays of young goalkeeper Max Bramley, who made a string of vital saves, and skipper Hamza Choudhury.
“Max as well made some outstanding saves. He hasn't played since Fleetwood [a 3-0 defeat]. He came and took the crosses and grew in stature in the game,” Beaglehole added.
“The whole spine of the team was strong and Hamza was again outstanding in midfield. The amount of tackles he made and headers he won, he passed the ball very well as well.
“Up front we always looked a threat. Josh [Eppiah], Admiral [Muskwe] and Layton really showed what they are capable of and we looked a real threat.
“When they play like that, get a result like that, it gives you a great buzz as a coach.”