Academy Manager urges his Under-18s to take their opportunities
Mark Robinson says tonight’s London Senior Cup tie offers a valuable opportunity for Wimbledon’s youngsters to impress Neal Ardley.
A total of 11 AFC Wimbledon Under-18s will gain first-team experience tonight in the fourth round tie at Barking (7.45 pm kick-off at Mayesbrook Park).
Supporters will get a chance to watch the players who aim to be a part of Wimbledon’s future alongside first-teamers such as Charlie Strutton, Jason Prior, Mikhael Jaimez-Ruiz and Brendan Kiernan.
Academy Manager Mark Robinson said: “It is a great opportunity for players from my squad to play men’s football – and they have to take it. Neal has involved 11 of them, which is great, and they have trained with the first-team.
“I will obviously leave it up to Neal because he knows what to say to them, but I have told them that they have to grab these opportunities. I have got my fingers crossed for them that they will take their chances and put in impressive performances.”
Chace Jacquart scored in the Surrey Senior Cup tie at home to Horley Town last month and the picture above shows him receiving the congratulations of Brendan Kiernan and Jason Prior after his goal.
AFC Wimbledon squad: Mikhael Jaimez-Ruiz, Jack Greenaway, Khan Williams-Mitchell, Duvaine Lindo, Matt Cunnington, Oluyesi Daley, Chace Jacquart, Dan Pearse, Tom Beere, Charlie Fayers, Greg Hayden, Harlen Basker, Charlie Strutton, Jason Prior, Brendan Kiernan.
Kick-off tonight against Essex League side Barking is at 7.45 pm (admission is £6 for adults and £3 for concessions). The Dons are also in cup action on Tuesday, 5 March, when they travel to Chipstead (7.45 pm kick-off).