MK Dons Under-18s begin their FA Youth Cup campaign this evening when they take on Long Eaton United.
Edu Rubio’s side travel to Derbyshire tonight looking to secure their fourth successive First Round triumph - the Young Dons have made it past the opening stage of the FA Youth Cup in six of the last season years.
A win tonight would also be their first in all competitions since Tuesday 4th September, when they beat Leyton Orient 2-1 in an FA Youth Alliance League South East fixture.
The winner of this evening’s clash will face Rochdale in the Second Round after Dale’s youngsters saw off Doncaster Rovers 3-0 in their First Round tie.
Kick-off is at 7.45pm.
Long Eaton United made it through four rounds of qualifying to secure their place in the First Round Proper.
The Derbyshire outfit beat Alfreton Town in their first match before getting past Leicester Nirvana, Basford United and Hereford, scoring a total of 13 goals while conceding just three times.
Long Eaton currently compete in the Notts Youth Football League Intermediate Divsion and sit ninth in the table after their first six matches.
Edu Rubio: “The boys are quite excited. We are looking to enjoy the game and the occasion.
“We are expecting a competitive atmosphere and experience, which is great for the players - the more experiences for them the better while they are developing.”
Boss Edu Rubio has the majority of his Under-18s squad available for selection while he will also be able to call upon the services of striker Dylan Asonganyi, who is still eligible to feature despite turning pro.
Charlie Pattison is expected to captain the side which will also feature the likes of Jay Bird and Alfie Jones, who have all had first-team exposure.
Ollie Leach and John Freeman (leg) are only absentees - Freeman suffered a serious leg injury in training and the best wishes of the Club are with John as he begins his rehabilitation.
Entry is priced at £2 adults and £1 concessions while under-16s go FREE with a full-paying adult.
Match updates will also be provided on mkdons.com and on Twitter.
