United academy manager Tony Daws believes his players did themselves “proud”, as they exited the FA Youth Cup at the second round stage.
Scunthorpe’s U-18’s were beaten 4-2 at Glanford Park by Tranmere Rovers, but despite the loss, Daws highlighted the many positives to take out of the game.
Speaking to The Iron PlayerHD, Daws said: “The boys can be proud of their performance.
“Youth football is all about learning and developing. Although we’ve lost the game, I thought we played very well in the first half, and there’s a lot to take from it.
“It was a game of two halves. I thought we played really well in the first half and took the game to Tranmere.
“We got ourselves in front twice, played some fantastic football and looked dangerous every time we got the ball.”
He felt the Iron just didn’t get the rub of the green at times, especially in the second period, where the visitors scored three goals.
“Second half it went a little bit wrong, and the disappointing thing was that we conceded from set-plays,” he declared.
“We hit the post in the second period, which would have been good for George (Barmby), because it would have been a third for him.
“I think 4-2 does look a little more flattering than what it was, that’s taking nothing away from Tran-mere, because I think they’re a very good team.”
On the whole though, Daws is optimistic with what he’s seen from United’s youngsters, and feels going forward, things are bright.
“It’s a great learning tool for them. I’ve said to them that they’ll be very disappointed at the minute, and that’s good because it’s all about development,” he explained.
“If you want to become a professional footballer, it’s a rollercoaster ride, sometimes you win and you feel great - like against Grimsby.
“The lads are down in the dressing room and they couldn’t get any lower, but I’ve said don’t get too carried away because you’ve got to remain level headed.”
See much more from Tony Daws on The Iron PlayerHD.