3/1 To Win
Derby County Under-18s begin their FA Youth Cup campaign on Wednesday evening as they take on Manchester United in the third-round tie at Pride Park, kick-off 7pm.
And supporters can show their support for the Rams, completely free of charge!
The Under-18s are currently on an impressive 10 match unbeaten streak in all competitions, with their only competitive loss this season coming in a home league game against Wednesday’s opponents United in September.
Last time out, and in the tenth match in their unbeaten run, Justin Walker’s and Rory Delap’s side produced a great performance to beat Manchester City 2-0.
A brilliant brace from midfielder Jason Knight was enough to see off the league leaders and send Derby within two points off the top of the Premier League – North table.
With league matches now concluded until next month however, focuses now turn to the prestigious FA Youth Cup competition that provides youth players with the chance to play in club stadia and has seen many first-team prospects pass through on their journey to senior football.
The Rams have fared well in cup competitions so far this campaign, with one win and two draws collected from their Premier League Cup matches against Swansea City, West Bromwich Albion and Everton.
With their team’s recent form, bosses Delap and Walker have been encouraged by the application of the players and the character shown from their young side in matches. These qualities have been a large part of the side’s success so far.
Following Wednesday evening’s cup tie, a break in the Under-18s fixtures over the festive period sees their next match come on the 13th January when they travel to Merseyside to take on Liverpool in the league.
Words by Marc Walker
Images by Harry Marshall
