There were mixed emotions for under-19s coach Max Porter following our 2-0 win at home to AS Monaco in the UEFA Youth League on Wednesday.
First-half goals from Ismail Oulad M’Hand and Louie Copley helped us to an impressive performance, but it was too little too late as we’d been knocked out of the competition prior to the match.
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U19s report: Arsenal 2-0 AS Monaco](https://www.arsenal.com/fixture/under-19/2024-Dec-11/under-19-2-0-monaco-fc-under-19-match-report?utm_source=arsenaldotcom&utm_medium=embedded-article&utm_campaign=news)
“I’m a bit mixed if I’m totally honest,” Max said. “I’m really proud of the performance, we played a really good Monaco team and all the teams in this competition have been tough opposition for us. It’s been a great programme and I’m really proud of elements of the performance when we did get rhythm in our passing. We had some great moves and it’s brilliant to score two goals. The only time we did that in the competition was last year against PSV.
“But I feel a bit mixed because I wish we could’ve shown that type of performance more consistently so that we could’ve have more brilliant opportunities for development games for the players.”
Tommy Setford produced a commanding display in his clean sheet-keeping performance and was a vocal presence throughout.
“He’s played for our first team and the way he came down and set the tone for everyone was great,” Max added. “I thought the older players like Ismail, Maldini, Harrison and Josh were great role models and the younger ones matched that and stepped up.
“I’m really happy with Louie Copley’s performance today. He didn’t stop running and it was great for him to get another goal.”
Everyone wants to score goals, but Ismeal Kabia can pride himself on his role as a team player as he registered another two assists from the right wing against Monaco.
“It was one of the best performances I’ve seen him have,” Max added. “He’s got to keep doing that and find that level consistently. Then there will be much more opportunities here at Arsenal or, if not, elsewhere to better his career.”
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