There was also a first U21s goal for Benji Casey, and a welcome return to the squad for Dean Benamar. Powell was full of praise for both, as well as the squad’s collective effort.
“Over the last couple of weeks we’ve played a lot of games, and I said to the boys, everyone’s going to be needed. It’s not about the starting XI – it’s a squad thing.
“We played Stoke, rotated, and the boys who came in did really well. Changed it again today with fresh legs, and it worked.
"It’s massively pleasing for Benji because he works so hard. Coming from the 18s to the 21s is a big gulf, but his application in the game was superb – he works his socks off. All you want for someone who works that hard is for him to get his goal.
“He and Zach played really well together. Deano coming back was great too, and we’re still waiting on Craig to return.
“There are a few boys to come back, but as long as we can keep giving everyone minutes over the next few weeks, it’ll help top them up and get everyone as fit as possible. Naming those two in particular – Deano coming back and Benji getting his first goal – I’ve just got to commend all the boys for putting in a real shift in the last few weeks.”