Imps Under 18s’ boss Sam Tillen praised his team’s focus and determination after the young Imps secured their third clean sheet of the season, defeating Walsall 1-0 in the EFL Youth Alliance at the Elite Performance Centre.
The win stretched their unbeaten league run to nine games and was ‘lit up’ by another rising star, Dakara Wifa. A standout first-half performance from Wifa proved decisive as he bagged his sixth goal in just four games.
“Dakara’s goal lit up the first half,” said Tillen. “He picked up the ball in an area where he likes to, and then the execution of his shot was superb. He’s got the quality, and he has shown that this season.”
Goalkeeper Jaden Taylor also earned plaudits after two critical saves in the second half kept the Imps in control. Tillen added:
“We made poor decisions at times, but Jaden Taylor made two fantastic saves which were great, and he’s done very well this season. It was epitomised in those two moments.”
Tillen also highlighted other players’ contributions, including Kian Sagoo and 16-year-old Lewy Oliver, who both impressed. He noted:
“It was good to have Kian Sagoo with us today, and he made the most of his opportunity. Lewy Oliver has been brilliant since he came up with the 18s, and it was another consistent performance from him again.”
Carter Ford, who stepped into a midfield role for this match, expressed his gratitude for the coaching staff’s trust. Normally a right wing-back, Ford adapted to the new position seamlessly and contributed to the hard-earned victory. He shared:
“I’ve been playing a lot at right wing-back recently, but I stepped into midfield today, so it’s different, but it’s nice that Sam trusts me, and I can show what I can do.”
Ford also praised Oliver’s efforts in central defence, especially in the latter stages of the game.
“The defence did really well, especially in the last 25 minutes. We really had to grind it out. Lewy Oliver really stepped up as well; he’s only a young lad.”
The young Imps are next in action on November 25th, when they travel to Bolton Wanderers’ Toughseet Stadium in the FA Youth Cup.