Cambridge United youngsters prepare for AFC Bournemouth clash

Young U's look to copy seniors' cup run

Cambridge United’s young guns will be out to emulate their first-team colleagues when they compete in the prestigious FA Youth Cup tonight (Wednesday).

Mark Bonner will lead the under-18s into battle against AFC Bournemouth in the third round at the Cambs Glass Stadium, kick off 7pm.

The U’s have beaten SYCOB Beaconsfield and Millwall so far in the competition this season, but they saw their 13-match league unbeaten run end at the weekend as they rested a number of players in a 2-1 defeat to Dagenham & Redbridge.

“It’s a massive game for us, the under-18 equivalent of the FA Cup,” said United academy manager Bonner.

“It’s a big thing for all the boys and there are only two years open to play in it. It replicates the pressure of the first team more than any other game you can play in.

“When you play in the league of course you want to win and get the points but it’s a development age group.

“If we get a performance alongside it then brilliant, but the result is all important.”

Season ticket holders get free entry to the game, while adult tickets cost £5 and it is £1 for under-18s.

And Bonner added: “We are usually well supported when it comes to these games.

“I would urge anyone to come and watch the game, and hopefully we can get a good support in.”