The Under-18s ended their season in style as George Sykes scored a hat-trick in a 5-2 win away at Swansea City.

Rob Taylor and Moses Duckrell were also on the scoresheet much to the delight of Lead Professional Development Phase Coach, Tom Donati.

Reflecting on the win Donati praised the overall performance of the side and backed more than one of the youngsters to force their way into the first-team next year.

“We travelled down on Saturday morning and everything was very well arranged, our preparation was great.

“It was our last game of the season and we did make a nervy start to the match. This cost us because we went a goal down when they converted a rebound following a good save.

“We responded well and got ourselves back into the game when Sykes scored a superb solo goal to make it 1-1. From there we took the lead, Taylor scored a fantastic free-kick to ensure we went into the break 2-1 up.

“We controlled the game and it was a deserved lead and we continued to take it to them in the second-half. It was a great performance for the lads.

“In the second-half Sykes scored again, it was a great header across goal before Duckrell scored his first goal of the season which sparked great celebrations. 

“Sykes completed what was a fantastic day for the Under-18s by scoring another header to complete his hat-trick and round off a very pleasing performance. 

“I am absolutely delighted and it was a great end to the season for us. We also jump Swansea City in the table to move up to eighth place and providing Cardiff fail to win we will stay in the position. 

“It was a very encouraging performance and hopefully some of these players can make an impact next year.

“They should be pushing especially in the Conference because I am sure a few of them would have pushed had the club been in League Two.

“It was a great performance and it is very encouraging for the club moving forward.”