Youngsters unable to find a breakthrough
THE battle of the Albions ended goalless in the Barclays U21 Premier League division two on Monday night.
The Baggies had chances to win what was an entertaining game at Crawley Town’s Checkatrade.com Stadium, but they were unable to find a breakthrough.
The point leaves the youngsters fourth in the table, four points behind the leaders Derby County who have played one game more.
Rahis Nabi and Tyler Roberts both went close in the opening stages, while Jack Rose made a smart stop to deny James Tilley at the opposite end.
After the break, Jonathan Leko raced down the right-hand side but blazed his effort over the crossbar.
Brighton duo Jack Harper and Rohan Ince then both missed good opportunities to give their side the lead as the clock ticked towards the closing stages.
There was one final chance for each team to claim all three points.
First, Rose pulled off an incredible save to thwart Richie Towell from close-range, before Tahvon Campbell’s strike was superbly kept out by Seagulls ‘keeper Christian Walton in added time.
After being left disappointed with recent displays, Under-21 boss James Shan was pleased to see his side regain their “identity”.
He said: “For a goalless draw it was quite an entertaining game.
“Both sides had good chances to win the match, but unfortunately we couldn’t find the breakthrough.
“Our performance in the first-half was better than it was in the second 45.
“We had more control of possession, we got on the ball and passed it around better and we created a few opportunities.
“We had a better identity and shape to us tonight, which was pleasing.
“Jack Rose made an unbelievable stop at the end.
“It’s a step in the right direction, so hopefully we can build on the result when we play Newcastle on Friday.”
ALBION: Rose, Ezewele, McCourt, Field, Oseni, Cleet, Leko (Scrivens 72), R.Nabi (Elbouzedi 83), Roberts, Ward, Campbell.
Unused subs: Ross, Barbir, Forss.