With the first team playing yesterday it was always going to be a night for the kids to show what they could do and they turned in a workmanlike performance. They lined up in the same formation as the first team had against Spurs. This time Brian Fitzgerald was the man to fill the hole.

The first half was a bright affair with both sides creating some good chances. Culkin in particular made three excellent saves as the Ryman League outfit tried to forge an early lead. The front three of Oli, Fitzgerald and Basham were linking well and soon Rangers began to force a succession of corners.

It was from a corner that Bean headed the games only goal. The lively Wes Daly delivered from the right and Bean rose highest at the far post to head past the wandering keeper. The keeper was also forced into good saves from Oli and Basham as the R's tried to extend the lead.

At half time Northwood made eleven, count 'em, changes and the fresh legs seemed to have the better of our youngsters for a time. Again Culkin had to be at his best to thwart the impressive Scott Fitzgerald (an old workmate of mine in case you were wondering why only he gets a name check!).

Richard Pacquette had now replaced the injured Oli and managed to drag himself out of his sulk for long enough to chip a fine effort over the keeper. Only Joey Woodwork could deny him a goal.

The game seemed to peter out toward the end and a one-goal victory was deserved. This was more of an attempt to give people a game and a number of the youngsters looked impressive. At the back Duncan, Ifura and Herron looked solid enough whilst Bean and Daly continue to impress.

Dennis Oli looked to be lacking fitness and Basham showed enough to suggest he will get a run against Steaua next week. Olly and Kenny were lurking in the crowd and a few of the lads may have given them a couple of things to think about.

Man of the Match - Nick Culkin