IAN Boden was full of praise for what he described as “the youngest first team he has seen” at Crosfields despite their defeat on Saturday.

Defending uphill against a bigger, more experienced Clock Face Miners side, Soap found themselves 16-0 down before a rousing response.

John Whittaker continued his rich vein of form to cross the whitewash and further scores from Brad Stanway and Aaron Holliday got them right back in the game.

However, their neighbours were able to close out a 20-16 victory to keep Soap winless in League C of the National Conference League.

Despite this, Boden had nothing but good words for his side’s display.

"This is probably the youngest first team I've seen at Crosfields, and I am very proud of their effort and character,” he said.

“Many teams’ heads would have dropped after taking that relentless battering from their huge forwards.

“As they gel and improve, they will become smarter and cleverer around the ruck, which Clock Face slowed down all the time.

“Another positive was Morgan Williams stepping up to the first team for his debut – he took it in his stride no problem."

Crosfields are due to host Leigh Miners Rangers on Saturday, kick off 2.30pm.