Interview with defensive pair ahead of trip to Preston
Defender Toby Sibbick played a key role in last season’s run to the FA Youth Cup last-16 and now he’s aiming to go one better this time around.
The Under-18s have a chance at Preston to create AFC Wimbledon history on Wednesday with a place in the quarter-finals of the national competition up for grabs.
Personally, it’s been a memorable year for Toby, who signed a professional contract with the club and gained experience of being in the first-team squad as an unused substitute at Chesterfield.
“This last year has been excellent for me and the time has flown by,” said Toby. “I remember playing against Chelsea like it was a couple of weeks ago. We gave them a good run for their money. Obviously, with me signing a pro contract, it’s been a good last year. The club has progressed massively with promotion and doing well in League One and the academy is growing too.
“We are in the fifth round for two consecutive years and that’s good. At Newcastle last year I think the fans helped us push through in the last couple of minutes – to get that winning goal. To celebrate with the fans afterwards was very good.”
Click on the link above to watch an interview with Toby and fellow defender Tom Scott ahead of Wednesday’s cup tie at Deepdale.
Though he described singing his initiation song in front of the whole first-team squad ahead of Chesterfield as a bit “daunting”, Toby took the rest of the experience in his stride.
“I was made to feel welcome on the coach up and I had a good time,” added Toby. “We had a training session at Derby County’s training ground and I went to the hotel and chilled in the evening. Being on the bench was a nice experience for me. I want to do well for the club, but I did not really feel pressure. I would have given my all to keep a clean sheet if I had been needed. A couple of Under-21 boys were in the squad as well so I felt comfortable around everyone and it was a good experience for me.”
Places are still left on the supporters’ coach to Preston for Wednesday.
It will leave at 10.30 am from opposite South Wimbledon tube station and 11.00 am from the Cherry Red Records Stadium.
You can book at £30 return by contacting 020 8547 3528 or e-mail info@afcwimbledon.co.uk with the subject title ‘FA Youth Cup’.
The Sir Tom Finney Stand south will be open for the game (7.00 pm kick-off), and season ticket holders of both clubs can enter for free on the night. Admission for non-season ticket holders is priced at £4 for adults and £2 for concessions.