Preview:Under 18's One Step Away From FA Youth Cup First Round Proper
Our Under-18s are set for a massive clash next week in the FA Youth Cup 3rd Round Qualifying, with a place in the First Round Proper on the line, and a mouth-watering prospect of drawing an EFL club in the next stage!
It has been an incredible run in the competition so far, and reaching this stage is a fantastic achievement for the club. The talent within the squad, together with the leadership of manager James Kaxe and his coaching team of Keith Campbell and Will Edwards, is truly beginning to shine through on the pitch.
The Journey So Far
This young side has shown resilience, clinical attack, and grit to navigate three tough qualifying rounds:
Preliminary Round: An emphatic 8-0 win away at Marlow got the campaign off to a flying start.
1st Round Qualifying: A hard-fought 2-1 victory at home against AFC Portchester proved the squad's character under pressure.
2nd Round Qualifying: A dramatic 3-2 away win against Alton FC secured our spot in next week’s fixture.
The Opponents: Chippenham Town U18s
Standing between us and a potential tie against a EFL side are Chippenham Town, who have proven to be dynamic and goal-hungry throughout their own cup run:
Preliminary Round: In a high scoring game they won 6-2 vs Cinderford Town at home
2nd Round Qualifying: Drew 1-1 vs Hartpury University (Won 4-1 on pens) Showing great composure under pressure
3rd Round Qualifying: Dispatched local rivals Bath City 3-2
With both sides in rich scoring form, everything is lined up for an entertaining, high-stakes encounter.
What’s at Stake?
Victory in the 3rd Round Qualifying opens the door to the FA Youth Cup First Round Proper, where clubs from EFL League One and League Two enter the draw. It represents an incredible opportunity for our young players to test themselves against professional academy opposition on a national stage.
Come down, show your support, and get behind James, Keith, Will, and the lads as they look to progress!
DATE: Monday 12th October 2026 - 19:45KO
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