3/1 To Win
Derby County Under-18s will look to extend their unbeaten run to five as their Premier League Cup campaign gets underway away against Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday, kick-off 12pm.
The Rams’ youngsters go into the tie in scintillating form having collected 10 points from 12 in their previous four Premier League – North ties.
In their last outing there were four different scorers as the Under-18s blew away Newcastle United, 8-0, at The Magpies’ Darsley Park.
By half-time Justin Walker’s side had netted five, with Jack Stretton sealing a hat-trick, Eiran Cashin and Connor Dixon also added themselves to the scoresheet.
The second-half continued in a similar ilk to the first with Stretton and Cashin adding to their tally, and substitute Yoann Greco completing the scoring.
Walker was understandably delighted with his side’s performance: “It was a very good performance, a very strong performance.
“I thought we dominated the game and we are really pleased with our efforts today.”
Despite their impressive recent performances Walker insisted the Under-18s were remaining cautious ahead of their Premier League Cup opener.
“It’ll be a tough test, Brighton are a very good team. We have not had much joy down there over the previous campaigns.
“We know that they will be a very good team, a very strong academy and we will look forward to that challenge.”
Brighton currently occupy eighth place in the Premier League – South, having collected six points from their opening six games.
Last time out they were narrowly defeated 1-0 by South coast neighbours Southampton at The Saints’ Staplewood Training Ground.
Kick-off on Saturday is at 12pm and will take place at the AMEX Elite Football Performance Centre.
Words: Andrew Haines
