City’s U18 side travel to Plymouth Argyle on Wednesday 8 January to fight for a place in the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup.
Catch up with the latest from head coach Sam Tillen and midfielder Denny Oliver as well as all the important match information in this preview.
Sam Tillen’s thoughts
“The lads have had a break from football as we haven’t had any games but they’ve been working hard. They’ve come back in looking sharp, I’m really pleased with how they’ve conduced themselves and they look refreshed, energised and ready to go.
“It’s been a great experience for us and this is another to have with a long distance travel and play at a Championship stadium. They’re all different things we’ve experienced together and hopefully this won’t be the end of it but we’ve thoroughly enjoyed the campaign so far. We’ve performed well in the games that we’ve played and hopefully we can do so on Wednesday as well.
“We know Plymouth are a very good side. Bolton our the top our table and Wrexham are near that too so we know that those teams gave us a really big test and challenge and we’re anticipating exactly the same on Wednesday night.”
Denny Oliver’s take
“We’ve had a couple of really positive performances, good results and I think we’ve looked comfortable getting through. Plymouth are doing really well on their side of the division so we’ve got to show them the respect they deserve but our team doesn’t need to fear anyone.
“This is the second or third time being in the fourth round for the club and I think if we get to the fifth round it’s breaking the club record so that’s a big focus for the team - that’s what we want to achieve.”
A look at the opposition
Jamie Lowry’s Argyle side have been flying high in the Youth Alliance South sitting second and just two points behind league leaders Gillingham.
Argyle secured a place in this round with an extra time victory away from home against Carlisle United following 89th minute equaliser from Harry Shield and two further goals in additional time.
City fans have seen multiple members of Tillen’s side feature in and around the first team, most notably Zane Okoro, who scored on his full debut for the club and it’s been a similar story for the young Pilgrims. 16-year-old Tegan Finn made his senior debut earlier on the season, while young goalkeeper Dan Holman has been involved in the first team at Home Park.
Match information
The young Imps will take to the Home Park turf in their traditional red and white home kit.
Supporters can watch the young Imps in action by purchasing an Argyle TV match pass for £2.50 HERE.
Live updates will also be available from the Academy X (formerly Twitter) account HERE.