3 min read
21st May 2023
Despite winning for the second successive game in Mumbai, defender Aaron Keto-Diyawa was quick to praise Indian opponents RF Young Champs.
The left-back scored within the opening 30 seconds to set Wolves under-19s on their way to six points out of six in the Premier League’s Next Generation Cup. Nathan Fraser doubled the tally shortly after to seal a routine victory in the end, but Keto-Diyawa wanted more from the team in the second half. However, he has also highlighted the Old Gold’s ability to adapt to the 37-degree heat and is looking forward to Sunday’s recreation trip to watch some live cricket in the Indian Premier League, as the group prepare to take in Mumbai Indians against Sunrisers Hyderabad at Wankhede Stadium.
On winning for the second game running
“It felt great. We had the momentum from the first game so the boys are in happy spirits.
“We’ve been keeping control of the games, keeping the tempo up and then when we need to, switching it on in the final third – we’ve created chances and got crosses in the box, which has worked out well.”
On his goal after 27 seconds
“It happens, sometimes it happens. It was good for me coming here at the end of the season to play well in front of the manager.
“It was great for us as a team and we’ll push onto the next game with high hopes and in high spirits.
“It was a lucky one (his goal) but we’ll see if I can do it again in the next game.”
On the performance overall
“The two goals in the first half definitely put pressure on the other team. As a team, in the second half, we have to do a lot better – I think the tempo went a bit but that’s due to being in a different climate and space.
“It’s hot out here so people have to adjust, but that’s why it’s always important for the boys on the bench to be ready to come on with fresh legs to get us going again.”
On facing Indian opposition
“It was hard and they’re a great team who play really nice football at times. They’re from here so it’s a lot harder for us because we have to adapt to the climate.
They showed real composure and real fighting spirit in the game, but we just had that determination not to concede and the want to score more goals.”
On going to the IPL on Sunday
“Coming out here, we’re in a different environment and you get to see the culture. Cricket is a big sport over here, so going there with the boys will be a good time.
“I’m looking forward to it. When you’re young you try out different sports and I tried out cricket – it’s a fun game to play and hopefully the boys get into it.”
