U18s lose Plymouth game
Nine man Cheltenham Town U18's fell to defeat away at Plymouth Argyle in the EFL Youth Alliance Southwest Division, despite a spirited performance.It was the third time the two sides had met this season and Plymouth secured victory in this rearranged fixture after both Josh Thomas and George Lloyd were sent off with 20 minutes to go for Cheltenham.
Argyle took the lead just three minutes into the second period, but Joe Hance and George Lloyd came close to equalising for the young Robins.
Josh Thomas was then shown a red card for a mistimed tackle and Lloyd was given his marching orders for dissent soon after.
Plymouth added a second goal in the closing stages to seal victory but Cheltenham manager Ashleigh Hopkins remained upbeat despite the loss.
"The first half was very even and could have gone either way with both sides creating good opportunities to take the lead," said the Welshman.
"It was very disappointing that lots of decisions were given against us but we kept going and were very unlucky not to equalise."
It was Cheltenham Town U18's second trip to Devon this week after drawing at league leaders Exeter City last Saturday, and Hopkins is happy with the progress that his side are making, despite the inconsistency in results.
"The players are showing improvement in their tactical play," said Hopkins.
"Owen Williams and Harrison Jones both played today as we continue to support the BTEC Programme.
"The league seems to be very open this year with lots of teams beating and losing against each other."
The young Robins are back on the road away at Yeovil Town on the 17th of December.