Lowestoft Town U19 extended their unbeaten run to five games with an impressive 2-1 victory over second-placed Bishop’s Stortford U19 at Crown Meadow in the U19 National Youth Alliance.

Both sides came into the contest in strong form and pushing towards the top end of the table, setting the stage for a competitive afternoon on the Suffolk coast. From the opening whistle, both teams looked to establish early control, with the Young Blues enjoying much of the early attacking momentum.

The Trawlerboys created the better opportunities during the opening exchanges, but an organised and disciplined Bishop’s Stortford side stood firm defensively. Despite Lowestoft’s positive start, it was the visitors who struck first on 25 minutes against the run of play. A powerful drive from the edge of the area flew into the bottom corner to give Stortford the lead.

Lowestoft responded well to the setback and continued to push forward in search of an equaliser before the break, but the visitors maintained their advantage heading into half-time.

HALF-TIME: Lowestoft Town U19 0-1 Bishop’s Stortford U19

Although trailing at the interval, Lowestoft had produced an encouraging first-half display and knew they remained firmly in the contest.

The Young Blues began the second period with renewed intensity and continued to dominate large spells of possession. Their persistence paid off on 50 minutes with an excellent move from back to front. Beevor started the attack before Kemp picked out Gore down the right flank. Gore combined brilliantly with Chirimunjiri in a quick one-two before smashing the return pass home to level the scores.

With momentum now firmly on their side, Lowestoft struck again just four minutes later to complete the turnaround. Howell collected a loose ball and drove directly at the Bishop’s Stortford defence before sliding a perfectly weighted pass through to Upton, who finished superbly into the bottom corner to make it 2-1.

Lowestoft had opportunities to extend their advantage but were unable to add a third, meaning they had to withstand late pressure from the visitors. Beevor produced a huge one-on-one save in the closing stages to preserve the lead and secure a massive three points for the Blues.

FULL-TIME: Lowestoft Town U19 2-1 Bishop’s Stortford U19

The result sees Lowestoft move joint second in the table and continue their excellent recent form heading into the final league game of the season.

Man of the Match was awarded to Bailey Sutton for a superb defensive display and excellent retention of possession throughout the game.

Next up for the Young Blues is their final league fixture of the campaign, as they welcome AFC Sudbury to Crown Meadow next Wednesday for a 2pm kick-off.