PROFESSIONAL Phase Development coach Alan Neilson praised the efforts of Norwich City's Under-18s following their 3-2 win at Southampton on Saturday.

The Canaries came from behind to lead 2-1 at the interval following a quick-fire Louis McIntosh brace, before Benny Ashley-Seal's penalty extended the advantage.

Southampton pulled a goal back late on, but City held on to secure a deserved Barclays Under-18s Premier League three points.

Reflecting on the result, Neilson told canaries.co.uk: "We said before the game the boys had to put their names down on the sheet for the FA Youth Cup and they did so.

"For the opening 15 minutes or so, Southampton were probably the stronger side. When we got the goal, however, we really came into the game.

"It was a really good response to come back. We were then down to ten men for the final 15 minutes due to an injury, but the lads dug deep to grind out a result."

Neilson was particularly impressed with the regular threat posed by his side during the game, and added: "All of our attacking players looked dangerous for much of the game.

"Louis McIntosh played really well, operating in a more advanced position. He got into the danger-zone twice and finished both chances.

"Winning games breeds confidence and the lads have been superb."

NORWICH CITY: Oxborough; Ramsay (c), Odusina, Ellesley (Wallis, 46), Syme; Sambu, Black, McIntosh (Aransibia, 72); Lewis, Ashley-Seal (Couzens, 63), Middleton. Subs not used: Hale-Brown (GK), Da Costa.

REPORT: SOUTHAMPTON 2-3 U18s

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