The under-21s secured their first three PL2 points of 2023 and a first win in the competition since the end of October. Collins’ side were aided by Pedro Neto, who was making his return from injury in the opening 45 minutes, although the head coach was impressed with the whole of his group who produced a well-rounded display.
On the overall performance
“I think it’s something we deserved. It’s been a while since we’ve gone ahead in a game which always helps.
“The performance from minute one was good and it helps when you get the first goal – Pedro (Neto) took his goal really well and having that quality in the group for 45 minutes shows the levels and difference. I thought he made a big difference in that way.”
On the first half display
“The work rate of the boys and some of the football we played in the first half especially was excellent. A lot of the work we’ve been doing came into fruition in the build-up and in our patterns.
“To get the second goal was a real boost. Dexter (Lembikisa) had a good chance just before he took his goal and I thought we were excellent in the first half.
“In the second half, because we haven’t won for a while, we wanted to make sure we hung onto it.
“Maybe we went too long at times but I still thought we defended our goal very well against an excellent team.”
On playing in this division
“We brought a great group of players through last year doing very well in the second division and that really helped their development.
“This year’s a different challenge because there are a lot tougher opponents this season.
“There’s benefits to both in truth, but when that ball rolls you want to win football matches and the boys are no different than anyone.
“Part of their development is winning and any time you beat Arsenal, you need to be pleased.”
On the win being a long time coming
“I know I’ve got a good group of boys – they’re good lads. I think they’ve had a bit of a tough time since Christmas.
“I thought we should’ve beat Blackburn and lost 1-0. We did ok against Liverpool and didn’t deserve to lose. We had a tough game away at Chelsea and lost 2-0. All of a sudden, your confidence gets knocked.”
