After a 2-0 victory over Blackpool in the EFL Youth Alliance League at the weekend, the U18s head into FA Youth Cup first round action this evening, taking on Walsall at Alfreton Town’s Impact Arena (7pm).
Haydn Hollis’ side go into the fixture looking to continue their seven-game unbeaten run in all competitions, which has seen them climb to eighth in the league.
Speaking ahead of the tie, U18 coach Hollis said: “I think it’s going to be a much tougher game than last time we played them.
“We played them roughly about four or five weeks ago and won 3-0, but we scored two quick goals after half time which flattered us a little bit, so I’m expecting a really tough game.
“We’re also in the EFL Youth Alliance Cup and we’re joint-top of that group as well, so I don’t think it matters what competition we’re playing in.”
Gunner Elliott scored twice when the U18s last faced the Saddlers, but he will be absent this time around as he completes his international duties with Malta U17.
Haydn discussed Gunner’s international call-up and how his side would deal with his absence, saying: “I don’t think it’s a massive issue, it’s another opportunity. One lad’s not available so another lad comes in.
“We’ve got a really good group, I’m comfortable whoever plays. Hopefully someone else comes in and takes their opportunity and when he (Gunner) comes back he’s got to work to get back into the team.
“It’s great for the club and the academy, it puts us in a good light and shows we’re doing something right.
“More importantly I think it’s great for the lad. He’s a young kid who’s just left school; to be thrown straight into that – what an experience that is.”
Discussing his team’s key attributes, Haydn added: “I don’t think it’s anything special, it’s just learning quickly from your mistakes, working hard off the ball and knowing everyone’s jobs – that’s just the basics of football really.
“If you do the basics of football, you’ve got a chance, and the lads do that. They’re winning games, there’s no right or wrong way to win. If we’re not quite at it, then hopefully we can just find a way to win.”
Urging supporters to attend the game, Haydn said: “It’s a great occasion for the lads. I remember when I was a scholar (playing in the FA Youth Cup).
“I don’t think it should be a massive occasion; it’s just another game, but in the back of their minds it is a big game.
“It is a big game for every youth team so I’m expecting Walsall to come and give us a good go as well, but hopefully they all enjoy it.
“If there’s a lot of fans there then it’s going to be great for the lads to play in front of a crowd.”
Venue: Alfreton Town FC – Impact Arena Stadium DE55 7FZ
KO: 7pm
Prices:
Adults – £3
U18s – £1