Academy players make their mark in the FA Trophy

The Academy was thrilled to see five Academy players in the Stockport County First Team match day squad for their FA Trophy fixture against Needham Market on Saturday 12^th March.

With Cody Johnson & Josh Edwards starting the game. There were outstanding displays once again from the Academy players during the game, including an assist for Josh Edwards! Congratulations as well to Keane Barugh, who made his senior County debut in the second half. We caught up with each of the players involved in the squad:

Josh Edwards – ‘To be asked to play for the first team is always a pleasure no matter the game or competition, being able to help the team into the semi-final is even better. The game went very well considering the conditions of the pitch and the weather we played in, we dominated both halves of the match and the score line proved that. To get Wrexham in the semi-final will be a challenge for the team however I have no doubt that we will overcome the next challenge in Wrexham on our FA trophy journey.’

Cody Johnson – ‘I thought the game went really for me and as a team, it was a different style of game as the ball was in the air a lot compared to on the floor. It was a great experience to play another 90 minutes with the first team pushing into the semis. Wrexham will be a tough game for the squad but hopefully I can contribute to a win.’

Keane Barugh – ‘It was a great game with a good turn out from the fans, the atmosphere was great, and I was happy to be involved in the squad. The performance from the team in the first half particularly set us up on a nice path to manage the game and in the second half get a comfortable win. Looking on to Wrexham, it’ll be a tough game I’m sure, being away from home again as well but I’m sure we are in good spirits to do well there and see what we can get from the game’.

Kai Johnston – ‘I thought we had control of the game all the way through. It made the game much easier in the second half when the third goal went in, I felt like we put the game to bed with the second goal and Needham Market didn’t have a clear chance on target. And going into the semi-finals against Wrexham it will be difficult away from home but with the talent there is in the squad hopefully it will be enough to make it to Wembley.’

Scott Holding – ‘It was a good match for the lads and good experience for Josh and Cody to play. In the next round it will be difficult as Wrexham have gained some form and momentum leading into it. I would also just like to add my congratulations to my Academy teammate Keane for his professional debut!’