Pompey praise as reserves top Premier League Cup group

Conor Chaplin laid on three goals as the Blues ran out 4-2 winners at Telford last night.

Nicke Kabamba, Kal Naismith, substitute Dan Smith and an own-goal secured a victory which ensures the Blues leap ahead of Everton under-23s to lead Group D.

With one match remaining, they are now in pole position to qualify for the next stage of the competition.

Pompey have already reached the semi-finals of the Central League Cup, having emerged through group stages.

And under-18s boss Mikey Harris was delighted with the ongoing attitude of a reserve side which last night also contained Drew Talbot, Tom Davies and Jack Whatmough.

He said: ‘It’s really pleasing.

‘We are in a competition with the calibre of clubs like Wolves, Norwich and Everton, so for us to be leading the group at this stage is a massive compliment to the squad and a great thing for the football club.

‘Last night – and throughout the competition – we’ve had a combination of players from the youth team, young professionals and senior professionals.

‘What’s more, every player to have worn the shirt can say they have put in great work-rate and shown superb desire to win games.

‘That has put us in the position we now find ourselves.

‘That is credit to all the players, right from the youth-team boys involved to the senior pros.’

Pompey’s final match of the group takes place at Westleigh Park against Everton under-23s on February 27.