14-year-olds Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly scored for the Arsenal u18s in a 6-1 win over Reading on Tuesday, playing in a heavily-rotated young side.
The Arsenal u18s faced Reading at Hale End on Tuesday night, and the Gunners named a young side with their opponents agreeing to do the same.
As a result, seven players made their debuts, including 14-year-old Ethan Nwaneri. Even for what was more like an u16 match, Nwaneri was particularly young, but he and fellow 14-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly (who came off the bench) are highly rated.
Along with Nwaneri, Aaron Benn, Cameron Brayne, Jimmy Gower, Alex Kovacevic, Tino Quamina, and Mathaeus Roberts all made debut starts.
Arsenal took a first-half lead through Gower, with Amani Richards doubling their lead with a penalty before the break. It was Richards’ second goal in two starts for the u18s.
After the break, Reading looked to be getting back into the game when Kelvin Ehibhationham scored for 2-1, but Arsenal ran away with the match in the final quarter.
Debutant Benn scored twice in 11 minutes, assisted by substitute Amario Cozier-Duberry and Roberts. Brayne then set up Nwaneri for an excellently-taken goal, particularly for such a young player.
Imagine making your #AFCU18 debut…
At just 14 years of age…
And scoring a goal like this! 🤯 pic.twitter.com/b3lVYdkMCs
— Arsenal Academy (@ArsenalAcademy) May 5, 2021
There was even time for another substitute, young Lewis-Skelly, to get on the scoresheet, set up by Bradley Ibrahim. It was Ibrahim’s second assist in three games for the u18s.
👏 Myles Lewis-Skelly made his debut for #AFCU18 last night…
What a way to open your account at just 14 years of age! 😲 pic.twitter.com/Ox2hgMmjZf
— Arsenal Academy (@ArsenalAcademy) May 5, 2021
Overall, a hugely encouraging night for the young side. Many of them will hope for further u18 opportunities next season.
Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly’s involvement is obviously drawing extra attention given their age. Manchester United and Chelsea are reportedly circling for them, so it’s not a bad idea for Arsenal to show they’re committed to giving them chances in higher age groups.
