Notts County youth team may have lost 3-1 to their York City counterparts at the weekend, but head of youth Mick Leonard was proud of the way the players stuck to the task on a tricky pitch.
The Minstermen went into the half time break 2-0 up thanks to a long-range shot and a controversial penalty, but the Magpies came out fighting in the second half and pulled a goal back through Malachi Lavelle-Moore's 15th finish of the season.
Notts continued to throw everything at City, but did not take their chances and were later punished on the counter attack.
York scored the third in the final stages, but Leonard was pleased with the display.
He said: “We had a number of injuries, which meant again we had to bring in a number of Under 16s with us and I was happy with their performance.
"I can’t fault the lads' effort and determination.
“It was a fairly even game throughout and like the first team at the weekend, key referee decisions were crucial.
“We now have two league games at home left, before the cup final at Walsall.
"We are all getting prepared for that, as it’s a big game.
"I’ve spoken to a number of fans recently and it looks like there is a lot of interest in supporting the lads and that’s fantastic.”
For more information about the upcoming Midland Youth Cup Final, click here.