Oldham Athletic’s youth team picked up a point on Saturday as they drew 2-2 away at Scunthorpe United U18s.
Andy Hackett and Kelfala Sheriff scored the goals with first team Head Coach Pete Wild watching on.
Wild was pleased with the way the youngsters played, barring a short period in the second half.
“It was a tough pitch to play on, but we played a strong side and we started the game really well.” He said.
“We moved the ball well, produced some great moves and got what we deserved with the lead.
“We looked on top all first half, but unfortunately second half they changed their formation and pressed us higher up the pitch which we couldn't adapt to.
“We found ourselves 2-1 down, but we made some changes and welcomed back Lewis McKinney and Ryan Pickford who were coming back from injury.
“When we made the changes, we looked livelier and we ended up getting that equaliser.
“We were probably unlucky not to take all three points, but that first 20 minutes in the second half cost us.”
Wild believes that other factors may influence the youth team’s performances as the season enters its final stages.
Decisions will have to be made surrounding professional contracts and Wild says it may make some players perform more nervously in the final part of the season.
“I think it's a tough time of the year, especially for the second-year scholars.” He commented.
“It's coming up to decision time whether they'll get professional contracts or not, so they're a little bit more nervous.
“I appreciate and understand it's tough for some of them, so that may have an influence on what might happen and where these lads see themselves in a couple of months.
“All you can do is reassure the lads and make sure you get the best out of them.”
The big news out the club last week was that Wild will take up a reign as Head Coach until the end of the season with the first team.
However, he says he will not ignore what is happening within the youth team and he wants to ensure the young players know he’s still keeping an eye on them.
“I will be overseeing and making sure everything is right in the academy.
“The reason I was there Saturday was to make sure the youth team know I'm still around and still looking after their development.
“I'll continue to do that for the rest of the season, we have a moral obligation to do so which is what I'm keen to do.
“You never know, some of them may get an opportunity before the end of the season with the first team.”
Next up for the youth team is a home game with Bradford City U18s on Saturday, April 6.