Arsenal loanee Ismeal Kabia produced another encouraging display as he helped Shrewsbury Town reach the second round of the FA Cup with a 3-1 victory away to South Shields.
Kabia is certainly enjoying his first loan spell away from Arsenal and was making his 12th appearance for his temporary club.
As has been the case in recent weeks, Kabia started the game as a right wing-back. Playing in that position has helped the youngster to develop defensively, while he was still able to provide a significant attacking threat.
Kabia helped to initiate the moves for Shrewsbury’s second and third goals as his team saw off the threat of their non-league opponents. In addition he won a goal kick with some excellent defending.
The 19-year-old switched to the left wing in the second half and enjoyed some bursts down the flank.
For all his qualities, the one attribute Kabia has often lacked is ruthlessness in front of goal. There was an occasion late in the game when Kabia could have scored but his effort was saved.
Overall, though, it was a very encouraging performance from Kabia and he could get a chance to play against high-profile opponents in the second round.
Shrewsbury’s Anthony Scully praised Kabia after the game and predicted that it won’t be long until he plays at a higher level.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Scully said: ‘He’s been brilliant ever since he came in. He’ll play much higher than the level he’s at but right now he’s learning.’