Academy | Ten graduates selected for Cup clash
Last week's Emirates FA Cup Third Round fixture with Preston North End saw Steve Morison name a squad which contained 10 graduates of the Cardiff City Academy.
Ciaron Brown, Joel Bagan, Rubin Colwill and Isaak Davies were named in City's starting eleven for the Cup clash, with George Ratcliffe, Tom Sang, Eli King, Keenan Patten, Kieron Evans and Mark Harris on the substitutes bench.
20-year-old Davies opened the scoring for the Bluebirds in the first half, netting his first senior goal for the club having made his First Team debut earlier in the campaign.
Sang, Evans and Harris all came off the bench during the match, and each played their part in City's winner. Midfielder Evans won possession in the centre of the park to release Sang, who played a fine low cross into the path of Harris. The Welsh international made no mistake, firing Morison's men into the Fourth Round and setting up a fixture with Liverpool at Anfield.
Head of Academy, David Hughes, commented on a proud day for the Academy, praising the dedication shown by players, coaches and parents across all age groups.
"Supporters always have an affinity for an individual who has come through our Academy. Having a matchday squad consisting of 50% Academy graduates emphasises the significance of our pathway in identifying and maximising potential.
"Development takes time and patience, with support from many areas essential. The encouragement provided throughout the journey across both disciplines and phases is comprehensive, with many staff having an influence.
"It is also important to acknowledge the support and commitment of parents throughout the journey, who have sacrificed many Sunday mornings and weekday evenings to attend coaching, practices games and workshops."
Former City defender Hughes also spoke of the united vision around the Club, which has enabled our young players to make a smooth and successful transition from Academy to First Team.
He said: "Having a Manager who was brave enough to provide the opportunity is equally critical in the success of a youth development programme.
"Seeing Isaak and Mark score the goals to take the team into Round Four was a proud moment for the Academy, topping off an excellent day for development.
"This reinforces the investment in our Academy by Tan Sri Vincent Tan and the Board of Directors. We look forward to enjoying many further Academy success stories in the future."
