After beginning 2012 with two disappointing defeats, the Academy under 18s bounced back in style to record a 2-1 victory over Stoke City at Compton Park on Saturday.

And coach Mick Halsall was delighted with the way his charges responded after they had fallen behind to the Potteries team.

He said: "This was a good win for our players as they had to come from behind against a strong, disciplined Stoke City team.

"Once again we started well but then City came into the game making it a pretty even contest.

"Both sides created good chances with Stoke taking one of theirs to take the lead midway through the first-half.

"The interval marked an important time for us as it was a matter of convincing the players they could go on and win the game.

"And I'm pleased to say that they did really well from the start of the new half as they began to dominate the game.

"We equalised through Sam Whittall who was in the right place at the right time when the ball dropped to him after the Stoke keeper had pushed a centre onto the crossbar.

"The lads continued to ask questions of the opposition and duly went in front after good play down our right side. The ball was fed to Robbie Parry (pictured) who finished well from just inside the box.

"We could have easily had three more goals in that second- half. But the pleasing thing about this game was the players' desire and will to go out and win again.

"They produced some good football, at times, and looked strong and compact once again at the back."