NORWICH City under-18's took part in their first home match of the season against Huddersfield Town at Colney today and came away with a comfortable 4-0 win.
Following a scrappy opening, which was dominated by Huddersfield, the Canaries began to build up a bit of pressure in their opponent's half which eventually led to the opening goal.
Forward Jamar Loza had a goal-bound shot saved by the 'keeper, though the rebound fell to Josh Dawkin who stepped inside his man and shot low into the goal to give the home side the lead.
Just a minute later it could have been two, George Francomb heading an excellent corner by midfielder Michael Clunan just wide of the far post.
On 13 minutes City's youngsters did extend their lead following a blocked free kick, the ball fell to Dean Florence 20 yards from goal and his volley dipped over the keeper into the goal to double the home side's lead.
Huddersfield's best chance of the game came on 17 minutes when a straight ball through the heart of the Norwich defence found the run of the away team's forward, Remi Matthews in goal made an excellent save, one-on-one with his opponent.
Five minutes before half time it was 3-0 as City worked their way forward well and from 25 yards out Dean Florence fired in his second of the game.
There was a lengthy delay just seconds before the half time whistle as Michael Clunan suffered what seemed to be a very serious leg injury, Michael left the field in an ambulance and of course our best wishes go with him and we hope for a full and speedy recovery.
Alex Stephens replaced Michael Clunan on 45 minutes.
Five minutes in to the second half Richard Brindley produced an excellent long range shot which forced the away goalkeeper into a very good save, tipping he ball over the bar. However, the away team were unable to clear the resulting corner kick and defender Cem Aytac neatly side footed the ball into the net to give Norwich a 4-0 lead.
On 70 minutes Chae Simons replaced Sam Kelly and on 75 minutes Taylor McKenzie replaced Jason Dobbs.
The away team had more possession in the closing stages but did not threaten the Norwich defence allowing the home side to comfortably come away with the 4-0 win.
Speaking on the result, Academy Manager Ricky Martin said: "We didn't start the game very well, but as soon as we took the lead we really began to dominate possession and deserved to win the game so comfortably.
"We restricted Huddersfield to long balls and looked very dangerous on the attack. There was a very long delay for the injury to Michael, and on behalf of the Club and the players I wish him a very speedy recovery.
"Both sides were a little shell-shocked following the injury, but I was pleased with the discipline our lads showed in the second half to secure the win."
Norwich Team: Remi Matthews, Jason Dobbs (Taylor McKenzie 75), Remy Gordon, Michael Clunan (Alex Stephens 45), George Francomb, Cem Aytac, Josh Dawkin, Richard Brindley, Jamar Loza, Dean Florence, Sam Kelly (Chae Simons 75). Subs not used: Angus Gunn.
