U18 Preview: Newcastle United vs Saints
Southampton’s youngsters travel to Newcastle United this weekend as they look to conclude their Under-18 Premier League Cup campaign with a victory.
Newcastle vs Saints
Under-18 Premier League Cup
Newcastle United Academy
Saturday 20 November, 11am GMT
The hosts have claimed just one victory in their last seven matches, securing victory in the Premier League Cup over Nottingham Forest.
Southampton’s Under-18s are looking to make it six on the bounce as they make the journey to Newcastle for this decisive cup match.
Carl Martin’s side commenced their winning streak in their last Premier League Cup outing against Leicester City.
With each side in Group A sitting on three points as we head into the final match of the group stage, it’s all to play for at Newcastle United Academy.
PREVIOUS MEETINGS
The two sides last faced each other back in April 2017, where the scores were tied.
Callum Slattery and Solomon Wanjau Smith were on the scoresheet for Saints at Staplewood that day, while Mackenzie Heaney and Kelland Watts scored for the visitors.
MANAGER’S THOUGHTS
"It'll be another good test for us," said Individual Player Coach Mikey Harris, "with it being our third away game in a week, it gives the players exposure to the challenge of dealing with lots of games in a short period of time. Alongside the added pressure of travelling.
"Everyone in the group is on three points, which gives us an opportunity to progress to the knock out stages, as we did in the Under-17s Premier League Cup on Wednesday after beating Chelsea 5-4.
"With players stepping up to the B team it gives opportunities for the whole squad and some of the Under-16s to step up and continue to build on developing the principles of the way we play."