Aston Villa’s quest for a fifth FA Youth Cup continues at Villa Park on Friday night when the Young Lions play Plymouth Argyle for a place in the semi-finals.
After seeing off Accrington Stanley (6-0) and Newcastle United (4-0), the club’s Under-18s came from two goals down to beat Bristol City and book their spot in the quarter-finals.
Villa’s last triumph in the competition arrived four years ago, and Aaron Moses-Garvey, Professional Development Phase Coach, says the squad are hoping to create their own piece of history.
“Everyone wants to emulate the last Youth Cup-winning squad,” he said.
“They might not say it outwardly, but the last Youth Cup-winning team have gone on to do some good things already in the game.
“Having the opportunity to show themselves in the Youth Cup can support their ambitions later on in life in terms of first team and in their future careers.”
The Young Lions are enjoying a strong season in the Under-18 Premier League, challenging at the top of the table as the campaign builds towards a climax.
Cole Brannigan has been one of the team’s leading attacking lights, netting 11 goals in 18 games, and he’s confident they can continue their challenge on both fronts.
“Over the past week we’ve been building up to the game and everyone is looking forward to it,” the attacker said.
“It’s a big game for us and the preparation that we’ve done leading up to it has been really good. We’re ready for it.
“It’s a cup game so anything can happen, but we’re just worrying about ourselves and we’re ready to get out there.”
As Villa look to reach the final four they’ll be roared on by a home crowd at Villa Park.
For some of the players and staff it will be their first time playing at the club’s famous home, and all involved are embracing the occasion.
“A lot of the boys are Villa fans and some of them are Season Ticket holders and so are there family and friends,” Moses-Garvey said.
“For them to play under the lights at Villa Park is going to be great for them and for staff members as well to walk out with the team.
“Ultimately, it’s just another game and that’s the mentality that we’ve got to have. Hopefully they’ll be able to show their best on the day.”
Brannigan added: “This is my first time playing at Villa Park, so it’s another great experience for me.
“There are others in the squad who will playing there for the first time as well, so there’s a big buzz around the game.”
FA Youth Cup tickets
Tickets for the match are available online via the link below, priced at £5. For full ticket details, click here.
On matchday, subject to availability, tickets can be purchased from the Ticket Office Cabin (Ticket Office 1), located opposite Trinity Road Stand, which will be open an hour before kick-off.
