Ollie Belleh played his first senior match for York City in a midweek EFL Trophy game against Newcastle United's youth side. The home loss offered a chance for emerging players, with Belleh being introduced in the second half.
He was among several academy prospects to feature, entering the game with other young teammates. Two other youth players were on the pitch for almost the full match. Lindsey has often spoken about his aim to promote youth at the club.
Belleh became part of the club as a young boy and has often led the youth teams he has been part of, winning a cup competition with one age group. His development aligns with the senior team's achievement of winning a league to earn promotion.
"It was an unforgettable experience," Belleh stated. He mentioned that appearing for York City's first team was "something he’d dreamed of since he was a kid" and said practicing with the senior players helped him get ready. The academy's role in the match was managed by the under-19s coach.
In the match, York scored first but the visiting team responded to take the victory. This leaves York near the top of their league after a mixed start to the season.
The focus now shifts to the next league game away at Chesterfield. For Belleh and other young players, the aim is to keep working hard in practice to win further chances in a team with ambitions to go up.
More detail at The York Press
