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Archived News from August 2003

YOUNG STAGS KEEPER PLAYS FOR WALES U-19 TEAM
4th August 2003 21:59



mansfieldtown.net reports that James Coates became the second Welsh International at Field Mill when he recently took part in the Northern Ireland Milk Cup playing in goal for his native Wales.

18 year old Coates got called up for duty to take part in the Under 19's tournament not knowing whether he was going to travel, sit on the bench or play for his country. But, Coates was called into action for two of the rounds against Northern Ireland and Scotland.

"The Match we played against Northern Ireland we lost 1-0 but a 1-1 draw against Scotland saw us going to penalties where we ended up winning 4-2" he told the official website.

"Playing football professionally is a great experience but to be called to play for your country is the greatest honour you can be given" he added.

The two great performances from Coates was not enough to see Wales win through in fact they finishe 7th of eight teams but Manager Neville Southall was pleased with the effort put in by the youngsters saying: "The team attitude was perfect, and we were unlucky with several of the results. The lads played some good football I am very pleased with the way they are coming together."

Coates is hopeful of a second call up for duty in September when the Welsh squad will be travelling to Belarus to take part in a mini UEFA tournament.

The Groups:
Group A - Brazil, Denmark, Northern Ireland, Wales
Group B - Paraguay, Scotland, USA, Poland

Everybody at Mansfield Town are very proud of James and say he will be one to watch in the future.

 

Latest | August 2003