FA Youth Cup preview
Mark Robinson believes the club’s young talents are capable of giving Watford a run for their money in Friday’s FA Youth Cup tie at Vicarage Road.
Our Academy Head of Coaching told Dons Player that he expects Watford to have a big home following and he would love Wimbledon supporters to get behind the boys in the third round of the national competition.
“I accept that it’s not ideal for our fans because the game is on a Friday night and our first-team are at home on Saturday, but it would be fantastic if we did get a few along to support us," said Mark (pictured left above with Seanan McKillop) I have been told by ‘Coxy’ who played for Watford that they take the FA Youth Cup very seriously. They often get big turn-outs in this competition and their first-team are away at Sunderland this weekend. Obviously, our lads would really appreciate the support.
“Watford were a category three academy club up until last year (the same as Wimbledon), but as they have gone up to the Premier League and up a category I’m sure they have more money to spend. Up until last season we were playing them regularly and we always fared well against them.
“When we first played Watford after we got promoted into the Football League we got beat four or five by them. I used them as a benchmark because they played very good football and they always had a productive academy. As the years went on we got closer and closer to them. I don’t think the gap is ever that big and there are little things that can make a difference. I think if our boys are fully focused we can put in a really good performance.”
Defender David Omperon has joined Jayden Antwi, Reece Batchelor and Dom Bongo on the injury list, but Mark believes there is enough quality in his squad to cause Watford problems.
“There are always positives and it provides opportunities for other players,” added Mark. “It’s up to them to step-up to the mark. We have lots of pace going forward, our midfielders our good on the ball, and we have good movement. We will be looking to do what we are good at and hopefully they can’t disturb that too much. But if they do, then we need a plan B and other ways that we can hurt them.”
The full interview with Mark Robinson is now on Dons Player.
Entry prices for Friday’s match are £3 for adults and Under-16s will be admitted free of charge.