Under-21s victorious in Syracuse University friendly

Troy Parrott was among the scorers as our Under-21s welcomed Syracuse University Men’s Soccer to Hotspur Way for a friendly on Friday lunchtime.

The Republic of Ireland striker, who has spent the season on loan at Preston North End, netted from the penalty spot with Nile John (2) and Max McKnight also on target in a 4-1 win for Wayne Burnett’s side.

In one of four games against English teams during their 10-day tour of the UK, our New York-based visitors provided a stern test, but an early goal from midfielder John – a well-taken low finish after only eight minutes – set the tone for a bright performance from us.

Nate Edwards fired home an equaliser for Syracuse on 27 minutes, with Josh Keeley working hard to prevent them from taking the upper hand but after John was brought down by the opposing goalkeeper in the box, Parrott stepped up to send the resulting spot-kick down the middle and restore parity just beyond the half-hour mark.

Half-time substitute Harvey White – also back from a loan spell at Derby County – struck the crossbar with a free-kick at the start of the second half and as we controlled the game, the midfielder picked out John with an exquisite pass and after a great first touch, he duly made it 3-1. McKnight, operating on the right wing, completed the scoring in the 90th minute, sliding in at the back post to convert an excellent cross from the left by Jamie Donley.