HEREFORD manager Josh Gowling heaped praise on the under-18 players who saw out a 2-1 victory over Westfields this evening.

An own goal by Jamie Bird and a Victor Sodeinde strike was enough to give a young Bulls side a place in the Herefordshire County Cup semi-final.

However, when Harrison Summers pulled a goal back seven minutes from time and most of the experienced players already substituted Gowling had to rely on his youngsters to see out the tie.

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“The young lads were a real credit to the football club 2-1 down with not long to go they (Westfields) were flooding men forward and putting balls into the box,” said Gowling.

“That’s where young lads get their experience from. Our midfield ended up being an under-18s and we had young lads at the back as well with a 19 and 16-year-old.

“It’s really pleasing that they came through it. They stood strong and will learn a lot from that. I wanted that game for them to see if they can really start to step up and some of them have really impressed tonight.”

The Bulls boss had praise for defender Ryan Price who played for the Bulls during pre-season.

“I like Ryan a lot, added Gowling.

“I think he reads the game well, I think he’s experienced beyond his years and I really think he’s got a chance.”