The Under-18s matched the first team with a 3-0 victory over MK Dons on Saturday morning.

Goals from Callum McNish, Sam Hoskins and Daryl McLean secured the win as the youngsters put in a determined performance to return to winning ways in the Premier Academy League.

During a bright start, the visitors took the lead inside the opening twenty minutes of action. Winger Jordace Holder-Spooner was brought down outside of the area and McNish hit a stunning free-kick into the top corner from distance to reward Saints' early endeavour.

On the half hour mark, Dave Puckett's side doubled their lead with a goal of high quality. Top scorer Sam Hoskins closed down a clearance from the Dons goalkeeper which saw the ball spin into the air, and the first year scholar showed instinct and class to re-adjust himself and execute an overhead kick into the back of the net.

In the second half Saints continued to look dangerous and created numerous chances to extend their advantage with Jordan Keegan unfortunate to see a goal disallowed before both he, and Hoskins struck the frame of the goal in the same move moments later.

However, with fifteen minutes or so left to play the visitors completed the scoring through McLean, who exchanged passes with McNish before hitting a shot across the 'keeper and into the bottom corner.

Puckett was delighted with the work ethic of his side, who showed the reaction he was hoping for from last week's disappointing defeat to Bristol City.

"It was exactly the response that we wanted, both in training all week and in the way that they approached the game," the Under-18s coach explained.

"We impressed all over the pitch and put them under immense pressure, keeping the ball in their half and dominating, creating numerous chances. Our standards have vastly improved and the clean sheet always looked comfortable."

Saints Under-18s: Dovey, Argent, Racine, Tafazolli, Reeves, McLean, Robinson, McNish, Holder-Spooner (Preen 65), Keegan (Isgrove 70), Hoskins.