Shrewsbury Town under-18s beat rivals Wrexham to stay in title hunt

Shrewsbury Town’s youngsters secured a thrilling victory over local rivals Wrexham to stay firmly in the title hunt.

As the first team secured their Football League survival last Saturday, it proved a good weekend all round as Salop’s under-18s beat their rivals 4-3 at Shrewsbury Sports Village.

Hugo Aiston, son of former Salop favourite Sam, starred with a brilliant second-half goal and an assist.

The triumph was the under-18s’ fifth win in a row and moved them just a point behind EFL Youth Alliance North leaders Preston North End, with two games in hand.

Despite trailing at the break, the young Shrewsbury side showed great character and resilience to secure all three points.

The deadlock was broken after just six minutes when Aiston released Harry Fallon, who calmly opened the scoring. However, Wrexham responded quickly to level before taking the lead just before half-time.

Just before the hour mark, Leon Hughes brought Town back on level terms, and with momentum building, Salop pushed on. Aiston then powered his way into the box and fired a strike into the far corner to make it 3-2.

The visitors hit back once again, but the decisive moment came in the 74th minute when a frantic scramble in the box ended with Wrexham turning the ball into their own net, handing Town a 4-3 lead - one they held for the remainder of the game.

Lead Professional Development Phase coach Sean McAllister said: “It was a deserved win, although we made hard work of it by conceding from three set-pieces.

“Jay Snook led the line really well, while Leon Hughes was excellent in midfield. With a goal and an assist, he probably just edged 15-year-old Hugo Aiston for player of the match.

“Hugo also scored a goal of real quality and set up the first. Simba Nyamwanza also made a big impact after coming on early in the second half.

“Overall, it was another pleasing weekend. The players continue to show what we believe they’re capable of, and it sets up an exciting end to the season.”

With four matches remaining and the title race still wide open, Shrewsbury now travel to face Stockport County this weekend, aiming to continue their excellent form.