Keen hails young defenders

Kevin Keen paid tribute to his side's defensive display after an inexperienced back four stood firm against a tough Chelsea side on Monday night.

"It was quite a young team and they had a right go for me," Keen told WHUTV after the goalless draw. "Even though it was a tough evening, the effort and the application was certainly there." That said, the manager believed his side could have showed more in the attacking third and, despite making it five games unbeaten, he added "we can do better".

At the back, two Under-18 players Bondz 'Gala and Ashley Miller shone alongside the more experienced James Tomkins and Joe Widdowson, themselves still only at Under-19 level. It was 'Gala that particularly caught the eye. "I thought Bondz was probably our man of the match," Keen said. "I don't very often single out players. My whole back four were tremendous."

For the full match report, click here.

  • To see Keen's post-match thoughts in full, including his fulsome praise for Jimmy Walker and Christian Dailly, log on or register with WHUTV later on Tuesday. There will also be full match highlights to come of all the key moments from Monday night. The Bubbling Under channel keeps you regularly updated with the progress of the Academy and reserve sides throughout the season.