This week’s EFL action showcased young talents under 21 making significant impacts across the pitch. From solid defensive displays to attacking flair, here are the standout performers, organized from goalkeeper to striker.

Goalkeeper: Teddy Sharman-Lowe

Teddy Sharman-Lowe delivered a calm and composed performance between the sticks. Despite Gillingham crowding him with three players during corner kicks to obstruct his movement, Sharman-Lowe handled the pressure well, making crucial saves on two such occasions. His overall composure and solid handling kept his team secure at the back.

Right Back: Neo Eccleston

Eccleston was quick and aggressive on the right side, contributing significantly in both defense and attack. His overlapping runs were a constant threat, as he frequently joined the attack to provide width and support, showcasing his pace and willingness to push forward.

One for @BarrowAFC fans. I spoke to on-loan @htafc defender Neo Eccleston about how he’s ‘buzzing’ at the opportunity to play at Stamford Bridge for the first time despite spending a decade on @ChelseaFC’s books. Full story in @TheLeaguePaper - in shops now. #WeAreBarrow #htafc pic.twitter.com/LV8a0K6VAJ

— Dave Flett (@daveflettpress) September 8, 2024

Right Centre-Back: Jamie Knight-Lebel

Jamie Knight-Lebel played a straightforward yet effective game at right centre-back. He maintained his focus on basic defensive duties, clearing danger and holding a solid line. His simplicity and reliability helped keep the defensive unit organized and effective.

Come for Jamie Knight-Lebel's excellent goal line clearance. Stay for the celebration! 💪 #CreweAlex pic.twitter.com/fGzxsse1Ph

— Standing Alone (@StandingAlone77) September 8, 2024

Left Centre-Back: Jay McGrath

Jay McGrath had an outstanding game, particularly excelling in aerial duels when Gillingham resorted to long balls. He consistently made the best choices to keep possession and was a rock at the back, ensuring that his team remained in control defensively.

Left Back: Thierry Small

Thierry Small showcased his attacking prowess from left back, delivering four crosses and even getting a shot off with his right foot. While he was solid defensively, it was his offensive contributions that stood out, adding significant value to the team's attacking efforts.

Right Wing: Lewis Payne

Operating from the right wing as a full-back, Payne was effective in intercepting plays and pushing high up the pitch. His defensive interventions were crucial in breaking down the opposition’s attacks, and he maintained possession well, helping his team control the game in the wider areas.

Central Defensive Midfielder: Matthew Craig

Matthew Craig played an important role as the link between defense and midfield. Positioned as a central defensive midfielder, Craig excelled in breaking up play and covering the number 8 roles. He made numerous ball recoveries and consistently found the most available player with his distribution, showing great awareness and timing.

Central Midfielder: Jack Hinchy

Jack Hinchy had a strong presence in the midfield alongside George Abbott. They both displayed tenacity in winning back possession and rarely lost the ball, contributing with successful passes that pushed the team forward. Hinchy’s composure and control in midfield helped his team dominate the center of the park.

Central Midfielder: George Abbott

George Abbott, working in tandem with Jack Hinchy, had an impressive game in midfield. He was instrumental in breaking up opposition play and maintaining possession, delivering accurate passes to the forwards and ensuring a steady flow of play from the back to the front.

Left Wing: Max Conway

Max Conway was electric on the left wing, consistently challenging the opposing right-back with his dribbling. His attacking mindset and ability to drive into the final third made him a constant danger, creating opportunities and keeping the opposition under pressure.

Striker: Benicio Baker-Boaitey

Benicio Baker-Boaitey had a standout performance, operating not just as a left winger but drifting centrally to play almost as a false 9 due to Port Vale's high possession in the final third. He executed several successful dribbles and posed a continuous threat with his left foot, keeping the opposition's defenders on their toes and contributing significantly to his team’s attacking play.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Cruzamento perfeito de Benicio Baker-Boaitey para o golo do Port Vale. #BHAFC pic.twitter.com/XQFkwQdrPD

— Seagulls em Português (@SeagullsEmPT) September 8, 2024

These young players are proving that age is just a number, showcasing maturity and skill beyond their years in the EFL. From goalkeeping heroics to attacking brilliance, they continue to make their mark on the league.