Club News: Sixteen year old scores in first appearance
- James Smith
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Photo: Owen Russell made his debut at Clapton CFC on Saturday.
Dunstable Town FC is very proud of its youth section. Over the last few years the club has worked hard to ensure there is a pathway from youth to adult football.
Our 2024-2027 men’s development plans talks about the need to ensure the who club is aligned, we want to give every player the chance to go from youth football to U18 floodlit and into our first team.
The work over the last few years and our commitment to EJA football is now starting to pay off, we fully expect to have 50% of youth section boys in our floodlit side next season and in turn see some of these train and play with the first team.
On Saturday, Owen Russell, who has just turned 16 and played for our County Cup winning U16 side was given a chance to be around the first team game against Clapton CFC on Saturday.
He had previously trained with the team, holding his own. Owen came on with 20 minutes to go in East London where he was comfortable on the ball and showed speed of mind. He also produced some dazzling skills in the corner of the pitch, leaving a defender on the floor, before driving into the area producing a smart save from the keeper. A few minutes later he did the same and produced a smart cross, which ended in one of our trialists being fouled in the area.
As confident as he is, he grabbed the ball and slotted the penalty away with ease.
Vice Chairman Luke Mitchell said “I’ve known Owen since he was 5 or 6 years old where he spent many years in academy football. When he moved away from Luton Town three years ago he came to us at Dunstable, knowing what a talent he is, we have supported his development, pushing him into the U18’s last season and have now supported his landing with the first team.
“It was a proud moment seeing him on the pitch yesterday, I think he surprised a few people with how well he did, he didn’t surprise me.
“Owen is one of many players we have in the youth section who are ready to play U18 floodlit football and push into the first team, likewise given our growth in the girls game, this will be mirrored in the girls side of the club.
“I’m grateful to our first team manager Steve O’Reilly, who has been watching a number of our youth sides over the last twelve months and giving players the chance they deserve.”
Billy Goodwin, Mikey Dobbs and Alfie Young all made first team appearances last season while being part of the U18’s with Alfie making appearances during this pre-season as well.
Photo: Owen and Alfie Young after the game at Clapton.
