Farndon looking ahead to future games after City's youngsters suffered a 2-0 defeat to Sheffield United at the Alan Higgs Centre…
Coventry City Under-18's coach Jason Farndon believes his players can overcome Saturday's disappointing result against Sheffield United and continue their excellent start to their campaign.The young Sky Blues lost for only the second time this season after a 2-0 defeat to Sheffield United at the Alan Higgs Centre. Farndon believes that playing a number of games in a short period of time may have taken it's toll on the team.
"I'm frustrated with Saturday's result." He said, "We did not perform to the standards that we are capable of.
"There are no excuses for that. It is tough for the players though as it was the end of three games in a week, and we had nine players out, either unavailable or due to injury.
"What this did mean however was that four Under-16's played on Saturday, which is a first. That is important for their development."
Farndon states that the development of these under 16's could be affected in one of two ways by playing in an age group higher than them.
He continued: "These players can go two ways. They could rise to the occasion and showcase what they can do, or it could be too tough for them and it effects their confidence.
"Either way it is important that we don't judge them after one game, especially against a Sheffield Untied team that was very direct and very physical."
Despite the big catalog of games coming ahead for the young Sky Blues, including an FA Youth Cup Second Round tie against either Rochdale or Nantwich, Farndon is confident that the quick turnaround can only be of benefit.
He concluded: "If you ask the lads, they would rather play than train, so it should be of benefit, despite the injuries you can pick up.
"One of those is Ben Stevenson. He's out for two to three weeks and in a foot cast at the moment. It's a shame because he is a massive miss, he's been outstanding so far this season.
"But I'm looking forward to the next few games and the next round of the FA Youth Cup. It is about regrouping, moving forward and pushing on."
The Under-18s' next game is on Saturday as they travel to the John Smith's Stadium to take on Huddersfield Town.