Oxford United’s Youth Team face Reading City this Friday at 7.45pm at the Rivermoor Stadium in the FA Youth Cup, after a convincing First Round win over Sutton Common Rovers at the beginning of the month.
Coming off a 0-0 draw at Cheltenham in the league last weekend coach Darren Purse told us
“A positive from the league game was the clean sheet from EddieBRearey in goal after his injury, it was a great return to the squad for him and a good foundation to go on and win the game but we didn’t create enough, we were not ruthless enough.
“With 7 under 16s playing, we had very positive performances from players who show great promise and potential within the academy but perhaps lacked experience meaning we couldn’t capitalise on the chances we had.”
This is a first for opponents Reading City to reach the second round of the FA Youth Cup.
“We will have to match their desire to win” said Purse, “They are a good side, they pass it well. If we match their desire then hopefully we will have enough quality within the team to come away with the win but if we switch off, they have punished teams in the past and will pose a real threat to us, making it a tough game.”
“It won’t be hard to motivate the players, they know its significance. Training is always a bit sharper around FA Cup games, the players have more grit as they have to win to remain in the competition. The lads will take this game in their stride, they’re all looking forward to it. They will need to stay calm, composed but play with lots of heart.
Eddie Breare, back from injury after missing the last FA cup fixture said:
“The FA Youth cup is a massive part of every under-18s player’s career, it is important for us to do well for ourselves and for Oxford United and hopefully we can make history with the club.”
“It is an unreal feeling getting the opportunity to represent the U’s in a competition like this. I unfortunately haven’t had the opportunity so far to play in it this year but from my experience last year, you can really feel how excited each player is to represent their club. The atmosphere is always slightly more upbeat within this competition as we know its knockout, it means a lot to win, fighting for survival every game.”
With 10 goals in their last 4 games, the U’s will aim to keep their momentum and extend their run in this prestigious competition.
We’ll have full updates on Twitter @OUFCOfficial, and a report on the final whistle right here on the official website.