Roman Put Your Cheque Book Away!

The Reserves were in action tonight away at Charlton Athletic and came away with a 1-0 win thanks to a last gasp winner from Captain Jimmy Smith who scored direct from a free-kick after Ben Sahar was fouled.

Its another weekend when all Chelsea teams have recorded victories - first the Academy then the 1st team and now the Reserves.

This article isn't about a report, if you want the full report click the link below:

http://www.sportnetwork.net/main/s379.htm

This is about the young players who could be playing in the first team within the next two or three years and save our owner a few quid in the process.

Michael Woods - Well no wonder Leeds United and Ken Bates are stomping about crying 'tap, tap.' Michael is sixteen and was one of the lucky two that went to the U.S. with the first team for pre-season.

Tonight he was extremely dominant in midfield and didn't look out of place facing up to the extremely experienced Matt Holland. As well as dealing well in his defensive duties, he was extremely potent leading Chelsea's attacks. Although he didn't score he caused Charlton's defence all sorts of problems.

Ben Sahar - Strong, fast paced and has a tremendous shot. Ben won the free-kick that the winner came from. Has scored all his goals for the Academy this season - 3 from his last 4 Youth games. Has been involved in two of the Reserves goals this season.

Scott Sinclair - Didn't have too much luck tonight. Blazed over from about eight yards, but the boy has got pace, lots of tricks of the ball and is certainly a danger down the left-hand side

Michael Mancienne - Cool, calm and dependable in the middle of defence and loves to bring the ball out of defence, Alan Hansen style.

Adrian Pettigrew - Michael's partner in defence and for his size has a lot of pace and reads the game very well.

Jimmy Smith - This season's Reserve team Captain taking over from Danny Hollands who left Chelsea to join Bournemouth in the Summer. Hard working, corner taker and looks to take responsibility. Scored tonight's winner direct from a free-kick.

Ryan Bertrand - Left-back and just cannot fail to learn from Ashley Cole and Wayne Bridge. Ryan was the 2nd junior player who went with Michael Woods to the U.S. with the first team.

Anyone of the above players could be in the first team at anytime during the Carling Cup competition and if they continue to perform as they have done so far this season, Mr A could well save himself some serious money.

To the lads that I haven't mentioned you are quality and you are 'stars' in the making.

L8ter