The victory over Newcastle in our latest Under-18 Premier League North assignment was City’s sixth consecutive win in all competitions.
The clash with the Magpies was one of City’s two games in hand over league leaders Manchester United and Wilkinson’s side now move 10 points behind the top spot holders.
Luca Fletcher put City 2-0 up come the interval before goals from former Blue Alfie Harrison and Darren Palmer drew Newcastle level.
But Wilkinson highlighted it was the team’s hard work and determination that saw us over the line with late goals from Ashton Muir and Matty Warhurst helping us secure three points.
MATCH REPORT | CITY U18S 4-2 NEWCASTLE
“I think it was the strength of character from the players in terms of just stepping up in that difficult moment,” said Wilkinson when asked what the difference was that helped his City squad overcome a tough Newcastle team.
“I was really pleased with how the lads stepped up, played in the right areas of the pitch, won duels and just had a really positive attitude after Newcastle pegged us back and us being on the back foot.
“So I think the character of the whole group was pleasing in that moment.
“In the first half I thought we played well. We had some really good moments in terms of our play with the ball and I thought our intensity and pressing was really good so got in a great position at half-time.
“Second half they just lifted up a gear, gave us a few problems and then before you know it it’s 2-2.
“And the last 20 minutes to go on and win from there I was really pleased in terms of the application the players showed.”
Watch Wilkinson’s full post-match interview via the video player above!
