Chesterfield Under 19s fought off tough opposition in Boston United to progress to the third round of the National League U19 League Alliance Cup following a 5-2 victory at St George’s Park.
A Man of the Match award-winning hat-trick from O’Connor and a Waite brace sealed the win.
The young Blues were eager to avenge a 7-4 league defeat by Boston last October, and O’Connor fired home after 11 minutes to give them the lead.
Chesterfield were not able to hold on to that lead, however, with Boston’s Sheriff equalising only three minutes later.
Waite (15) restored the Spireites’ advantage with a superb finish before scoring another to make it 3-1.
On the stroke of half-time, Boston reduced the deficit, to make it 3-2 to Chesterfield at the break.
Following an inspiring half-time talk from manager Jordan Burrow, the Chesterfield youngsters took command. O’Connor added another goal to his tally on the 52 minute-mark, before completing his hat-trick 13 minutes later.
O’Connor took advantage of some hesitation by the Boston keeper, tucking away his side’s fifth goal to put the tie out of Boston’s sight.
Man of the Match
O’Connor’s clinical hat-trick, helping to seal Chesterfield’s win over Boston, earned him the MOTM award. Three smart goals meant the player took home the match ball on the day.
Chesterfield: Preston; Charlesworth, Barrass, Blakeley, Grierson (Roche 86); Wilkinson (Burkitt 81), Moss (Geeves 62), Tansley, Waite; Kee, O’Connor (Morris 81)
Unused substitute: Hamilton
CFC Goals: O’Connor 11, 52, 65. Waite 15, 32
BUFC Goals: Sheriff 14, 45+1
