With the Youth Team riding high at the top of the league, coach Henry Newman is determined to keep their fine run of form going as they kick off the cup campaign tomorrow.

The U18s travel to Tilbury in the first round of the FA Youth Cup on Thursday evening, in a game that kicks off at 19:30.

And with another tough test to come in the league away to Southend United on Saturday morning, Newman is aware that the group have a tough task on their hands with two games in less than 48 hours.

Speaking during the week, the Academy Manager said:

“It will be a good test of our squad. We have a big squad of 23 players, and all of them will be involved in some capacity as the group returns to full fitness.

“We are excited by the challenge and will be treating the cup no differently. We are determined to do well in the competition and are keen to continue our winning run of six straight games going.”

The Youth Team are currently top of the Football League Youth Alliance Table and have already seen a number of players involved with the first team this year, including Mathew Stevens who became Barnet’s youngest ever player when he made his debut against Alfreton Town recently, success which Newman admits he is determined to build upon:

“We are winning games, all of the players and playing well and we have already had a good number step up to first team duties, whether in training or on the pitch. Those were the aims that we set out at the beginning of the season and we are eager to continue in the same vein.”