safc.com’s Sam Lightle speaks to youth team striker Lee Connelly ahead of Sunderland under-18s’ season opener this Saturday against Newcastle United.
Lee, the start of the under-18s season is almost here and I’m sure you are just ready to get started now…
LC: “It is a good start for us to be playing at home in our first game of the season against Newcastle. We all need to be up for it and make sure we get ourselves off to a good start.”
It has been a long time coming this first game of the season but I am sure you are pleased to put the pre-season schedule behind you now…
LC: “Yes, is it nice because we can now focus on some competitive games. Pre-season has gone well and there are a lot of new faces in the team. When it comes to Newcastle we just want to get off to a flying start.”
What can you expect from Newcastle this time round having played them a couple of times last season?
LC: “We need to start the game well. The first 15 minutes are important and we just need to make sure we build on that. In the last few games we have played well and managed to get hold of the first 15 minutes, so a fast start is vital.”
It’s also your first home game of the season. A real opportunity to begin on the right footing at the Academy of Light…
LC: “Yes, absolutely. Three points are up for grabs and that’s something we need to grab hold of straight away. It is a good opportunity to start the season well and that’s what we need to try and do.”
