Josh Pask's men emerged from a difficult challenge with flying colours
- Josh Pask led a youthful Dev Squad to a 2-1 win away at Peterborough United
- The 18-year-old captained the Dev Squad for the first time
- The central-defender is targeting a break-through season
The 18-year-old central-defender put in a commanding performance at the back, while bursting forward on several occasions when in possession.
Speaking at full-time, Pask said: “I thought I played well out there. It’s nice to play on a great pitch, a good atmosphere and in front of a decent size crowd, I enjoyed it and I thought I did well.
“It felt good to be captain, I found out in the warm up when Liam came up to me. I was happy to do it and I really enjoyed it.
“I’ve captained a couple of U18 games before but this was obviously a step up, so I’m pleased.”
Despite facing a more experienced side, a task made harder by the searing heat, Pask continued to describe just how hard his side had to work.
He said: “It was very difficult, particularly in the first half, it was very hot. Thankfully there was a bit of shade in the second half but even still, it was very, very hot. It was a great test for us, physically and mentally and I’m glad we came through it.
“Obviously it’s only our second game of pre-season, a lot of boys got a lot of minutes which was good, and I almost got a full 90, so fitness wise I feel good.”
Pask has now started and impressed in both of the Dev Squad’s pre-season friendlies, and is likely to feature in the young Hammers next match away at Southend United on Saturday 23 July.
In what he hopes will be a breakthrough season, Pask finished by stating his ambitions for the season: “Hopefully I’ll push on and become more involved in the first team, or maybe look to get a loan at League One level with a club like Peterborough, that would be great, one of those two options.”