We will kick-off our FA Youth Cup campaign on Wednesday night as we host Northampton Town at Meadow Park.
THE STORY SO FAR
Despite heading into this fixture off the back of a 2-1 loss to Everton in the U-18 Premier League Cup, we’ve been in fine form this season, winning 10 games from 14 in all competitions.
We’re currently second in the U-18 Premier League table on 27 points, just two behind league leaders Tottenham Hotspur.
We’ve scored 3.36 goals per game on average and conceded the second fewest goals in the league (22).
We reached the final of the competition last season, but lost to Chelsea over two legs.
THE OPPOSITION
Northampton Town are currently top of the Southeast Youth Alliance league on 44 points.
They’ve won 14 fixtures from 17 and been beaten just once in the league this season.
The Cobblers have also scored more goals (41) and conceded fewer (15) than any other side in their division.
They’ve won each of their last five league fixtures and kept three clean sheets along the way.
ONE TO WATCH
Matt Smith has had an impressive season at under-18 level, scoring four goals and assisting seven in the league.
Composed on the ball and blessed with an eye for a pass, the young midfielder has flourished since being named captain in the summer.
The 18-year-old has already bettered his goalscoring tally from last season - and he’s yet to miss a single minute of league action.
FOLLOW THE ACTION
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