Under-18s v Portsmouth | Youth Alliance Area Final Preview

Argyle Under-18s are in action this Saturday in the area final of the Youth Alliance Cup, against Portsmouth.

In a format similar to the Bristol Street Motors Trophy (formerly the Papa Johns Trophy), the Youth Alliance Cup is regionalised, with Argyle and Portsmouth the sides remaining in the southern part of the draw.

Argyle have beaten Sutton United and Cheltenham Town en route to this stage, the Portsmouth getting by Northampton Town and Swindon Town.  

Argyle are top of the Youth Alliance League South West Division, with Portsmouth in second. The Greens have 31 points from 13 games, Pompey 23 from 15.

In the two league fixtures between the sides this season, Argyle have won both, winning the first 2-0 at home. In the away game, the Greens found themselves 2-0 down 20 minutes into the second half, but turned the game around, with an injury-time winner making it 3-2.

"Portsmouth are a strong side," said Under-18s manager Jamie Lowry. "They are second in the league table, we always have competitive games against them. It's rare to do the double over them. Last time, coming from 2-0 down to win 3-2, was great, but they will want their revenge, and will be up for it. 

"They will be gunning for us, and it is an area final as well, so lots to play for. We'll prepare like we always do and give it our best shot. Everyone is fully fit and we're ready to go. 

"Playing games with consequences is a good thing for the players. The game is really important, and part of the programme is about learning certain things: dealing with pressure and consequences, and learning about how you deal with that, how you manager that going into the game. They might be more nerves than usual, but it's all part of the experience, and how we are trying to educate the boys. 

"These are all great learning experiences, and no matter what happens with the lads at the end of the season, they will take away memories and experiences for the rest of their lives."