Brave Hatters U18s knocked out by Terriers

The Hatters put in brave display at the John Smiths Stadium against a highly-rated Huddersfield side who sit top of the Premier League Under-18 Division Two North.

It was the Terriers who spurned the best chance in normal time when Philip Billig fired his penalty against the bar following a handball.

After 90 goalless minutes, Town took the lead in extra time when Zane Banton dribbled his way through and produced a splendid finish.

However, Hatters joy was short-lived as Billing was pulled down in the box just 30 seconds later and Regan Booty sent the spot-kick past Ben Barnes.

Luton then found themselves behind just a minute later when Huddersfield’s Jake Charles ran from inside his own half to slot past Barnes.

Paul Driver’s side were eventually beaten in the final two minutes when Jack Boyle fired home.

Town almost grabbed a late consolation through Banton, but the hosts held on to seal a fourth round tie.

After the game, the squad took to Twitter to express their anguish.

Ben Barnes said: “Unfortunately lost but so proud to be part of this team with these players, just gotta work hard and go forward from here on.”

Luke Trotman added: “Absolutely gutted to Lose after second half of extra, especially as we scored first. Lads played well though.”

Lucas Perry said: “Gutted. Lost in extra time...should have won, unlucky result.”

Harry Tamplin ‏said: “Great effort lads, couldn’t have done any more, did everyone proud.”

Tinashe Chabata said: “Heartbroken knocked out by Huddersfield in the fa youthcup.”

Ian Rees tweeted: “Lost 3-1 In extra time to Huddersfield in FA Youth Cup, gutted to have lost, didn’t deserve it.”

Captain Charlie Smith said: “Great team performance and so unlucky with the result. Gutted!”

Daril Ngwala said: “Gutted to have lost in second half of extra time, great team performance, so proud to be part of such an amazing team. Well done boys.”

Finally, goalscorer Zane Banton said: “So gutted. Thought we’d won after i got the goal in the last 8 mins in second half of extra time. Somehow we lost it, well done boys. Everyone played decent, didn’t deserve that.”

Town U18s: Barnes; Trotman, Perry (sub Tayali 112), Tamplin, Chabata; Rees, Smith, Amu, Ngwala; Banton, McKenzie-Lowe.

Subs not used: McMonagle, Allman, King, Hawkes.

Attendance: 243.

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