Crofts hoping it's a case of third time lucky

Men's under-21s coach reckons Albion have been unfortunate in their opening two games ahead of trip to Wolves on Monday.

Matthew Bishop

2022-08-22T12:00:00Z

Andrew Crofts' team are hoping for their first PL2 win of the season tonight.

Andrew Crofts feels his side have been unlucky not to have won so far in Premier League 2 this season and hopes they can taste victory when they play Wolves tonight, kick off 7pm.

Our men’s under-21s fell to a narrow 3-2 defeat to Crystal Palace before a late Liverpool equaliser last Sunday denied them victory in a 1-1 draw.

Crofts’ team travel to Kidderminster’s Aggborough Stadium hoping to gain three points, although the head coach believes that victory could have already been secured.

“Against Palace I think we won in every area other than the scoreline,” said Crofts. “We created some really good chances against a team who fielded £30m-plus of talent and were happy with how we performed.

“We were unlucky not to come away with something and it was a similar story against Liverpool. We controlled the game in the second half and should have seen it through.

“In both games there might have been a bit of naivety with the goals we conceded, but that happens at this age level. We will help the players learn from those situations.”

As well as guidance from Crofts, Shannon Ruth and the coaching staff, Albion’s youngsters have also been helped by a number of first-team players who have had outings in PL2 this season. Steven Alzate, Levi Colwill and Julio Enciso have all played and the head coach says their presence has been valuable.

“We always want to help the first team in any way we can, whether that’s them using our players or helping them get minutes in our team – it’s a massive part of why the 21s exist.

“When they’re with us, the first teamers show that real quality and work rate our lads strive for and are getting really close to. It’s great to learn from. You have to leave younger lads out as a result but that helps build their resilience and helps them deal with disappointment. They understand the situation.”

Looking ahead to tonight’s game, Crofts added, “Wolves are new to the league and have had a decent start. They’re well organised and have good players. It will be a tough game. It’s our first away trip of some distance this season. It’s nice to spend a bit more time together as a group and hopefully bring three points back. We’re looking forward to the challenge.”