MK Dons Under-18s will be looking to reach the Fifth Round of the FA Youth Cup for the first time in the Club’s history when they face Colchester United tonight.
Edu Rubio’s side recorded a dramatic late win over Cardiff City in the Third Round of the competition when Tommy Hope secured the win with a sensational volley late in the tie.
The Under-18s will be looking to complete a historical week as this past Saturday they came from behind to beat AFC Wimbledon 2-1, securing the Youth Alliance League South East title in the process. The current crop of youngsters became the first Under-18s side in the Club’s history to achieve such a feat.
This evening's fixture has to be settled on the night so extra-time and penalties will follow should the sides be level come the final whistle.
Kick-off is at 7pm.
Colchester United enter tonight's tie without a win in their last two competitive fixtures – their last was the 2-0 victory over Crewe Alexandra in the Third Round of the FA Youth Cup.
The U’s have also seen off competition from Bishop’s Stortford FC and Cheshunt FC to reach this stage in the tournament.
MK Dons showed their grit and determination on Saturday as they came from behind to beat AFC Wimbledon 2-1 to secure the title with two games remaining. Goals from Charlie Pattison and Recoe Martin secured the three points and the league honour for Edu Rubio’s side.
Last time out in the FA Youth Cup, a stunning late goal from Tommy Hope sent the boys from MK1 into the Fourth Round after an excellent defensive display against Cardiff City.
Colchester suffered a 2-0 defeat against Queens Park Rangers in their last fixture, while in the Third Round of the competition the Essex-outfit were 2-0 winners against Crewe Alexandra with Ollie Simms and Noah Chilvers grabbing the goals.
Edu Rubio will be without Dylan Asonganyi for tonight's clash. The top scorer for the Under-18s is currently suffering from a knee injury that also saw him miss the Third Round win over Cardiff City.
David Kasumu, who has on the bench for the first-team on the weekend, will be looking to make an impact from midfield, while Liam Sole who found the back of the net against Colchester United’s Under-23s earlier in the season will be hoping to do the same this evening.
Finn Tapp, who also found the net in that fixture, will be looking to provide stability in defence alongside Tommy Hope.
Tickets are priced at £7 adults, £5 seniors/under-18s and £3 under-14s while under-11 tickets are just £1. Members of the armed forces can attend for £5. Tickets can be bought at the Weston Homes Community Stadium, cash only.
Supporters wishing the follow the action from home can do so via the Match Centre while a full match report available to view on mkdons.com after the final whistle.
