WANDERERS’ Under-18s coach David Lee wants his young players to regroup during the international break and come back fighting after slipping to a disappointing 6-0 home defeat to Middlesbrough.

After a promising start to the FA U18 Premier League North Group, Lee’s side put in a poor display on home turf last Saturday to suffer their first defeat of the season.

But the coach is confident his teenage team will respond in the right way in their next outing at Newcastle next Saturday.

Lee said: “Overall, it was poor performance after a good one last week.

“It was a bit of a reality check for the players who now must look to react positively in training.

“It was a disappointing day where we conceded two goals to penalties.

“At the other end, Jamie Thomas had a couple of good one-on-one opportunities but was denied by the Boro keeper.

“The manner of defeat is frustrating but we will look to put it right at Newcastle after the break.”

Thomas continued to build on his reputation when he scored two goals in two international friendles for Wales Under-19s against hosts Montenegro this week.

Meanwhile, Wanderers U21s have added two cup dates to their fixture list.

Jamie Fullarton’s development squad will host Oldham in the Manchester FA Senior Cup at the County Ground in Leyland on Tuesday, kick off 2pm.

They will also travel to the Robin Park Arena on Tuesday, November 11 to face Wigan in the Lancashire FA Senior Cup, also at 2pm.