Manchester City academy games a success
On Sunday 26 April the Carlisle United academy teams were invited down to Manchester City's new training complex to play their academy teams.The foundation phase U7, U8, U9, U10, U11 and U12 teams made the journey and they all had a very enjoyable experience.
Academy coach Ben Benson said: "We were delighted with how the players performed and applied themselves. Our day started with the academy U10s/U11s and U12s playing the Manchester City teams.
"They were very competitive fixtures with lots of goals, saves and tackles. We're never worried about results, it's all about enjoyment and performances, and we were delighted with both.
"It's a great test for our lads to try and learn in this environment and we always use these days to remind players of our club values, both on and off the pitch.
"The afternoon saw our U7/U8 and U9 teams play their games. This also included a tour of the Etihad Stadium. Again this was a great vehicle for our players to learn both on and off field behaviours, but also experience another club's history and values.
"It was a great day for everyone and it also gave us an opportunity to introduce our new U7 and U8 players to the way our academy works."
"We were delighted with the performances," he continued. "The City coaching staff were full of praise for our professionalism and application on the day. That's always nice to hear because it tells us we're doing things properly.
"I would like to extend my gratitude to Manchester City for being excellent hosts. Garry Riley, Max Johnstone and their respective teams were fantastic with us and they looked after us throughout. The staff and players were treated really well and this experience will last long in the memories of the players, parents and staff.
"I usually use these games as a bit of season curtain raiser but, with the success of this day, we look forward to making it a regular fixture between the two clubs."
