Academy 17s v Dundee United 17s
Ayr United 17s played hosts to a strong Dundee United side at Prestwick Academy on Sunday afternoon and it was Ayr who started the game in fantastic fashion by getting control of the midfield and quickly into their passing game.
However against the run of play Ayr gifted the visitors the lead when they got caught in possession 25 yards from goal. The Dundee United striker then broke through on goal and with only the keeper to beat he was brought down inside the box for a penalty which was converted past the helpless James Hart. This was the only set back of an outstanding 1st half in which the boys played superb 1 and 2 touch football.
Ayr deservedly equalised through Alan Forrest from the penalty spot before Michael Wardrope scored the goal of the match with a 25 yard strike that flew past the Dundee United keeper and into the top corner.
More excellent play from Ayr saw them score their 3rd of the half when Aiden Keegan (pictured) arrived at the back post to blast a left foot shot past the United keeper after some excellent build up play involving Ross Campbell, Alan Forrest and Ryan Nisbet.
The 2nd half was more even with Dundee United having an encouraging 10 minutes but they weren’t able to trouble James Hart in the Ayr goal. However just as Ayr were getting on top again, the Ayr defence gave Dundee United a life line when a hopeful long ball from the Dundee United defender allowed there striker through on goal with only James Hart to beat and the Dundee United Number 10 calmly slotted it past the Ayr goalkeeper.
Both teams had opportunities to add to the score but neither were able to take their chances which allowed this talented Ayr team to see out this entertaining match.
After the game Ayr manager Andy Willock said ‘the 1st half performance was the best I have seen the boys play in my 4 years at the Academy but in the 2nd we lost our shape in the midfield and at times our defenders lost their concentration. However all in all it was still a very good performance against an SPL youth team.’
