Oxford United’s Under 18s look to continue their FA Youth Cup adventure on Friday night when they welcome Sutton United in the Second Round of the FA Youth Cup.
United safely made it through after a battle with Bridgwater in the First Round and now welcome Sutton to Court Place Farm on Friday (7pm)
“It’s a fantastic competition for them” Academy manager Stevie Kinniburgh explains. “Last season everyone remembers the team beating Leeds and Cardiff and travelling up to Man City. Those were wonderful nights and the performances were outstanding. But to earn that sort of tie you have to come through some tough battles first. Last season it was Torquay and then Horndean and both were incredibly close games.
“So Friday night will be proper cup football, under the lights and with no First Team game this weekend it would be great if people came along to support the youngsters and took a look at what this year’s team is all about.”
Gatlin O’Donkor was one of the stars in last season’s campaign and echoed what Stevie said.
“We had a good season in the league but the FA Youth Cup is what got people excited. We went further than the club had ever been before and we made memories and friendships that are going to last us forever. This year’s second year scholars will be talking to the first years and I’m sure will be saying how tough Friday night will be. I’ll certainly have an eye on things and be hoping the lads can get through.”
Chris Hackett and Pablo Haysham coach the team and Chris is hoping for a decent crowd on Friday night to support the team
“They are usually really entertaining matches and the support we got last season was exceptional. You get the parents and friends there at every game but the FA Youth Cup seems to draw more people along and because it’s Friday night and an early kick off at 7 hopefully a few people want to come out and support the club’s younger players.”
The game takes place at Oxford City’s Court Place Farm at 7PM on Friday 17th November.
Tickets are available on the gate and cost £6 for Adults and £3 for Over 65s and Under 18s.