Thomas hits brace as u-18s overcome Charlton 3-1

Arsenal u-18s warmed up for Wednesday’s FA Youth Cup clash at Villa Park with a 3-1 victory over Charlton Athletic at London Colney this morning.

The Gunners went into the game on the back of an eight-match unbeaten run and showed no signs of letting it slip as they dominated the early stages of the game. Despite Arsenal having control of the game it looked as if the two sides were going to go into the break goalless. That all changed when captain Jay Emmanuel-Thomas struck seven minutes before half-time to put the hosts 1-0 up.

During the interval, coach Steve Bould told his side not to lose their concentration and they stuck to his word- creating a succession of chances before Rhys Murphy eventually doubled the lead on the hour mark. Arsenal were still celebrating when Charlton pulled a goal back just a minute later- it was only the Addicks’ 18th goal of the season.

Some nervy moments followed by Emmanuel-Thomas struck again to make it 3-1 sixteen minutes from time for his sixth goal of the season.

So, Arsenal remain top of Premier Academy League Group A and welcome Norwich to London Colney next Saturday, but before then there is the small matter of the FA Youth Cup tie with Aston Villa at Villa Park on Wednesday night.