FA Youth Cup tie this evening

10/29/2024 06:13 AM

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, […]