It has been a challenging campaign at times for Arsenal U18s, who have found consistency difficult to come by.
That trend continued yesterday as Adam Birchall’s side suffered a 4-3 defeat against a West Ham side who finished the game with ten men.
Arsenal’s loss meant that they were unable to build upon their 3-0 win against Reading in midweek and they have still yet to win consecutive matches since August.
One positive to take from yesterday’s game, however, was the impact made by Bowen Phillips in the first half.
Playing against his former club, Phillips opened the scoring with his first goal for Arsenal at U18 level.
The first year scholar can play as a central midfielder but of late he has been used on the left wing and the position seems to suit him well.
Phillips endured difficulties with injuries this season and he will hope to make a major impact next campaign as he aims to secure a professional contract.
A player who is intelligent in possession, he is capable of linking play very well and can also make dangerous attacking runs.
Arsenal have five league fixtures remaining at U18 level this season, including an away game against West Ham in which they will be hoping to exact revenge for yesterday’s defeat.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird