Mansfield Town professional phase development coach Steve Chettle previews the new season, as our under-19s begin their Youth Alliance League campaign tomorrow away to Huddersfield Town (11.30am kick-off).
Stags have welcomed an intake of 11 first year scholars ahead of the new campaign: Harrison Leech (goalkeeper), Elliot Hartmann (right-back), Cormac Maher (centre-back), Lucas Ellis (centre-back), Callum Johnson (midfielder/right-back), Harvey Scott (midfielder/left-back), Tyler Harrad (midfielder), Ollie Taylor (midfielder), Oliver Monnington (forward), Daniel Organ (forward), Chae Whitman-Brown (forward).
And prior to tomorrow’s season opener at Huddersfield, Steve Chettle said: “We’ve had a very productive pre-season. We’ve played a lot of games and the players and amassed a good amount of game time. But now it’s time for the serious stuff as we prepare for a league campaign.
“It’s helped in pre-season that our players have integrated with the first team, especially in the games against Long Eaton and Matlock.
“This season will be a different experience for some, and an exciting prospect for others.”
On the ambitions for the under-19s this season, Steve said: “We’re looking for players to develop and we want to grow an environment where the team is learning how to win matches.
“We’re also looking to produce players for the gaffer, if and when needed.”
On the opponents, Steve added: “Huddersfield are a strong team. We’ve looked at their footage from last season and we’ve worked on our game during the week.
“We’ve gone through a presentation this morning ahead of training with the players, so we can set off on the best possible footing ahead of the new season.”
Supporters can watch tomorrow’s match free of charge. The venue is:
The Millers Oils High Performance Centre, 509 Leeds Rd, Huddersfield HD2 1YJ
