Quote: "Academy and reserves (possibly interchangeable) have been getting pumped this year (you often learn more from a loss but a monstering not so sure) and doesn’t seem to have been a very busy fixture list. With putting younger players out to Skolars now gone (although if the chat was true our request for money for players with limited experience might have done that already) and noting that our recent elevated academy players have mostly had some game time but a move up the table and a more competitive squad has reduced that game time significantly. On paper looks a great idea to invest for the future but the reality this season the pathway from Academy to 1st team looks a little grim. Wonder how many we will give contracts to.'"
The home game against FC Reserves aside, I haven't seen much of the either the Reserves or Academy this season. There was a young forward playing for us in that match who caught my eye, but I cannot for the life of me remember his name. Tough seasons for both, as you say.
Obvious logistical requirements aside, I'm not sure I see a spend of the scale stated. I would assume we are not paying our Reserve/Academy grade players.