WATFORD'S under 18s lost out in their opening game of 2008 as they went down 1-0 to MK Dons on Saturday morning.

Despite a strong first half performance and three very good goal scoring opportunities the young Hornets couldn't convert their chances. Midfielder Kieron Forbes blasted one effort at the home goalkeeper.

Then in the final moments of the first period, Michael Bryan's header was somehow saved by Laurie Walker in goal for MK Dons.

With Lee Hodson missing out through injury, Rob Kiernan deputised at right back. Naturally a ball-playing midfielder, it was a new experience for the youngster but all part of his learning curve.

After the break the Dons came out of the starting blocks the stronger and were ahead before the hour mark - Stephane Koffi getting the all important goal that won the game.

Under 18s coach Sean Dyche said: "It was a strange match - we started the game very well and should have really been two or three nil up by the break.

"However it's the old cliché I'm afraid and goals do change games and we couldn't get our noses in front. By taking the lead we would have put them on the back foot. But we couldn't do that and they punished us by scoring in the second half.

Sean Dyche

"It was the first game of the year for us but we prepared well enough as always. Rob Kiernan had a new experience at right back but it's important he learns from it, it's all part of his development and it's handy for us to see him playing in other positions."

The Academy face Spurs at London Colney this Saturday (12 January), kick off is at 10.30am.    

WATFORD: North; Kiernan, Lavers, Beech, Bennett (c); Jenkins, Bryan (Sordell 81), Forbes, Gibson (Yiadom 62); Henderson, Young. Subs not used: Antal, Maxwell, Oshodi.

MK DONS: Walker, Mitchell-Coop, Chicksen, Thorne, Flanagan; King, D Powell, M Powell (Cryan 12) (Farden 54), Kelly; Delderfield, Koffi. Subs not used: Williams, Fox, Carter.

SCORER: Koffi (57).

REFEREE: Mr C Miller.

 BUY YOUR WATFORD PICS HERE