Rudkin: Commitment Was Excellent

20 Sep 2014
1 Minute
City Academy Director Jon Rudkin lauded the commitment of his Under-18 side after they drew 1-1 with Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday at Belvoir Drive.

The Foxes took the lead in the Barclays Premier League tie through Danny Rowe on 68 minutes but Spurs equalised seven minutes later through Shayon Harrison.
There were chances for either side at the death but both No.1s were on hand to ensure the highly entertaining end-to-end game finished all square.
Speaking after the draw, Rudkin said: “The game was certainly very tight between both sides in the first half – there were few chances for both teams.
“We hit the bar in the first half through Ben Chilwell but there was some good play from both sides and I think both teams demonstrated some quality phases of play at times.
“Those watching the game would have thoroughly enjoyed it.
“The second half was certainly a lot more open with both keepers making some fine saves at times.
“We earned ourselves a very well taken goal by Danny Rowe – he can be very pleased with that finish after beating several opponents and then driving into the box to slide it past the keeper.
“Moments later another effort by Danny Rowe in the box brought about an excellent save from the Tottenham keeper.
“Our work rate and commitment across the side was excellent and when games are as tight as the one today, you certainly need that quality and we really showed we have plenty of that.
“The goal we conceded was a bit disappointing especially as how far they travelled with ball.
“We’ll certainly learn a great deal from that but overall in terms of a result it’s a pleasing point against a team like the calibre of Tottenham.
“Ironically both sides could have gone on and won it, which really showed our desire to want to win games which is a positive trait to have.”
The young Foxes travel to West Brom next weekend and will look to put in another good performance against an opponent that Rudkin knows will have plenty of quality in all aspects of play.
He continued: “Again, West Bromwich Albion are very difficult opponents – we know they’ll be strong and they tend to be a big team.
“We’ve got to work our way around that and that will certainly be another good challenge for us.
“Most importantly the group will have a busy week working on the many aspects to enhance each individual’s game in preparation for the fixture.”