Farndon was full of pride as the young Sky Blues exited the FA Youth Cup against Manchester City, but was disappointed at the side's first half performance…
Coventry City Under-18s manager Jason Farndon revealed his pride for his young Sky Blue squad, as their FA Youth Cup journey ended last night.The side lost 8-2 to a star-studded Manchester City side in the fourth round tie, with Devon Kelly-Evans and George Thomas netting consolations for the visitors.
Although Farndon was pleased at the sides cup run overall, he was frustrated at the first half performance, which saw City down 6-1 at half time.
"It was a difficult night," he said. "I'm bitterly disappointed with our first half display, especially the first 20 minutes. I think we gave them too much respect, we didn't stick to the principles we had planned.
"A couple of players froze, but we will regroup and the whole experience will make them stronger.
"I was told before the game that every one of their side is an international, they are an excellent side but they should be, a lot of money goes into them.
"They pluck players from all over the world, we pluck our players from the midlands. But I was pleased with the lads' second half performance, it was much better."
"But ultimately, we didn't stick to what we should have done and play the way we have done all season."
With the likes of the Kelly-Evans twins receiving squad numbers and George Thomas appearing as a substitute for the first team on monday night, this season has been one of massive progression for the young Sky Blues.
Farndon was quick to praise his team and pointed out how the experience would help them, whilst stating that their next game (Huddersfield in nine days time) is now the priority.
He continued: "I am delighted with the group. It is a small group and we are all in it together. They play under-18s games, under-21s games and a couple of them are with the first team, perhaps it caught up with them tonight.
"Huddersfield is next, we have to go back and concentrate on the league. But it is great to come to this place, with phenomenal facilities and test ourselves against a category one team.
"It's been a great journey and tonight will show the players that they have to be on their game all the time if they want to be the best they can be."