Emotion riding high for youths
Mar 21 2006
Academy Football with Chris Wright, Daily Post
AFTER the euphoria of reaching their first FA Youth Cup final in a decade, Liverpool under-18s return to FA Premier Academy League action today with a re-arranged clash with Derby County at the Kirkby Academy (kick-of 1pm).
John Owens's side will be buoyant looking forward to a two-legged final against either Manchester City or Newcastle United next month.
City hold a 3-2 advantage going into Thursday's second leg at Eastlands.
Dates have already been finalised either side of Easter for the two-legged final whoever gets through to face Liverpool with both games televised live on Sky television. The first leg is at Anfield on Thursday, April 13 (kick-off 7.30pm) with the second leg at either the City of Manchester Stadium or St James' Park on Friday, April 21.
Owens reflected on an emotional night for the players on the south coast when Liverpool triumphed 5-4 on penalties after a tie with several twists had ended 4-4 on aggregate.
Owens said: "We seemed to be on course with the early goal then they hit back. But the one (own goal by Jack Hobbs) right near the end was an emotional rollercoaster because you are seconds away from getting through and then it is extra-time. You feel they are the ones on the up and the worry is that fatigue and emotion gets the better of them."
Owens added: "It is a great achievement for the boys and hopefully we can now win it.
"But there are no guarantees with the Youth Cup. I do think 10 or more years ago the Youth Cup was more of an indicator of having players who would get through to the first team. We are hopeful every year and this year is no different, but with all clubs looking worldwide for experienced and young players it may not always be the case."
Liverpool now concentrate on the next game against Derby this afternoon, where they will look to improve on their record on just one win in their last four fixtures.
Adam Hammill twisted his knee on Friday and missed last night's reserve match, but it isn't thought to be a long-term problem. While Ryan Flynn suffered a dead leg and had to come off after suffering fatigue and cramp, but he should be available for today.
