This Thursday sees the Under 18s play in the Centre of Excellences biggest game to date, The FA Youth Cup Third Qualifying Round.
After seeing off both Hamble and Poole Town in the previous rounds- the Centre of Excellence side are looking to book a place in the First Round Proper of the prestigious tournament.

For Joint-Manager Pat Suraci, the FA Youth Cup is familiar territory- with him accumulating multiple appearances over the years.
“It's a big game for the team. We’ve prepared well, it’s up to the boys to show everyone what they can do on the night” said Suraci.

Cheltenham Saracens are set to be one of the toughest tests yet for this young side, having recorded a 3-1 win over Yeovil Town in the previous round, whilst also accumulating a 100% win record in the league. However, this doesn’t seem to phase Suraci, as he believes the progression pathway within the club has helped prepare the team for this.
“The Under 18 squad have been fantastic this season. There seems to be a real togetherness within group, and I think because a lot of them have played for the under 23s- we’ve been able to see a real development in the maturity of a lot of players”

Finley Walsh-Smith, Christian Bennett, and Harry Yoxall have all been prominent players within both the Under 18s and Under 23s over the past two seasons- with the latter even picking up the captaincy arm band for the 23s this season despite being just 17 years old.

Thursday's fixture is set to be played at Privett Park, 19:45 Kick Off.

The Read more, check out Joe Leas article with Portsmouth Sport here

For more information on the Centre of Excellence check out their social media accounts below-
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