Exeter City under-18s suffered a narrow 2-1 defeat away at league leaders Portsmouth on Saturday.
Coach Andy Struthers made three changes to the side that suffered a big defeat against Swindon Town. Injuries meant that under-16 goalkeeper Sam Down took the gloves. Louie Cayless and George Williams also came into the side.
The damage was done early in the first half, as goals from Tayo Singerr and Chinedu Agu meant City found themselves 2-0 down, before Theo Cutler scored a second-half penalty to halve the deficit.
The hosts got off to a quick start, taking the lead after just four minutes as Chinedu Agu’s effort was parried away by Sam Down and Tayo Singerr converted the loose ball from close range.
Despite some bright play from City, Pompey would double their lead after 35 minutes as the dangerous Agu surged past a couple of defenders before slotting home.
City were much improved in the second-half and got the reward their play deserved when Theo Cutler scored from the penalty spot after 66 minutes.
City would end the match with ten players, after Jack Anthony was shown a second yellow card late on.
In a game of two halves, City were unable to find the leveller they deserved and would fall to a narrow 2-1defeat to strong opposition.
The defeat leaves the young Grecians second from bottom in EFL Youth Alliance South.
The U18s are next in action this Saturday, hosting Forest Green Rovers at the Cliff Hill Training Ground.
Exeter City under-18s: Down, Cartwright, Anthony, Cavendish, Cayless Oakes, Birch, Williams, Wilson, Crees, Cutler.
Substitutes: Hodgetts, Graham, Ohanaka.