A PENALTY from captain George Francomb proved only a consolation for the under-18s as City lost out to league leaders Arsenal 3-1 at Colney.

In their final game of the year, the Canaries doned their new strip of Norfolk County Council sponsored shirts - part of the local authorities' partnership with the Club announced in the summer. However, it was Arsenal who finished the day with the three points, consolidating their top position of the Premier Academy League.

The Gunners proved as tough opponents as their league position would suggest, making the early running and taking an early lead after just seven minutes - City losing possession and giving time for Jernade Meade to place the ball past Remi Matthews in the Canary goal.

Just moments later only a clearance off the line by David Stephens prevented Arsenal extending their lead. This was followed by further chances for the Gunners by Luke Freeman and goalscorer Meade.

Norwich found chances few and far between, the most notable when Francomb provided a good cross for Ryan Oakley to volley over the bar. But seven minutes before half-time Arsenal did extend their lead, Meade this time beating City's offside trap and firing a shot past Matthews.

Francomb had a goalbound effort blocked just before the break but the score remained 2-0 to the visitors at half-time.

The Canaries were brighter in the second half - Oakley causing the Arsenal defence problems in the box and Danny Kelly having a shot saved by the Arsenal 'keeper. But on 55 minutes Arsenal scored again with Oguzhan Ozyakup finishing from close range.

With less than 20 minutes to go City did pull a goal back, Danny Kelly was felled in the box and the referee pointed to the spot. City skipper Francomb stepped up and converted for the Canaries.

Although the Canaries continued to press, Arsenal remained in control and had a late long-range effort rattle the City bar.

Final score: City 1 Arsenal 3

Speaking after the game Academy Manager Ricky Martin commented: "Today individual mistakes cost us dearly and we gave Arsenal the opportunity to gain a 2-0 lead and be in control of the game. At times we played and created some good chances, although I will be looking for us to show more consistancy in our general play and be tougher to score against."

City: Matthews, Osemwegie, A Stephens (Gordon, 58), Francomb, Dumic, D Stephens, Clarke, (Drmola, 70), S Kelly (Nwaogu, 70), D Kelly, Oakley, Dawkin. Subs not used: Ball

Arsenal: Dunn, Ayling, Obed, Brislen-Hall, Edge, Yennaris, Afobe (Boateng, 58), Freeman, Meade (Webb, 58), Ozyakup, Byles. Subs not used: McDermott, Ansah, Neita.

Norwich City Under-18s wear their new kit sponsored by
Norfolk County Council