Owls’ development coach Lee Bullen was pleased with the 3-2 win over local rivals Sheffield United on Tuesday night – but frustrated that the victory was not more emphatic.
Leading 3-1 with the clock ticking down, Wednesday were awarded a penalty, which Caolon Lavery missed before United broke to score at the other end to give the scoreline a more respectable look.
Bullen said: “That was frustrating but these things happen, no one means to miss a penalty, but that would have put the game to bed beyond any doubt.
“That said, Sheffield United came to play football and I thought they were a very good side but we had the edge on the night.
“We were exceptionally good on the counter and the young players stuck to their tasks very well.
“Sheffield United were a very well organised side and, as nice a result as it would have been, I think 4-1 would have flattered us a bit on the balance of play.”
The Owls triumphed courtesy of a Gary Madine brace and a late strike by Rodri and Bullen was full of praise for the senior pros who gave a good account of themselves for the Under-21s.
He said: “The attitude of the senior pros was fantastic. It’s easy to come into a game like this and go through the motions but they were exemplary, they led by example to the younger players.
“They showed their experience and the level the others need to aspire to.”
Rounding up, Bullen gave a special mention to Jack Stobbs, who made a late appearance for Wednesday at just 15-years-old.
The coach added: “Jack looked very composed when he came on and he picked out a couple of lovely passes.
“The lad has a lot of talent and he was not overawed by the occasion in any way. He can be proud of himself.”