Head of Academy Coaching Dan Leivers has told Magpie Player that tonight's FA Youth Cup clash at Meadow Lane is a 'special occasion'.
The under 18s take on Romulus in the FA Youth Cup first round at Meadow Lane, with Leivers revealing it is a huge occasion for everyone involved in the youth team set up.
He said, "It’s a big day for everybody in the Academy. It’s nice to get out on this pitch, the lads all dream about playing here for the first team so it’s a special occasion for them".
"They will be different from most of the teams we play week in week out. They’ve got a good academy system over there, they train day in day out. They’ll come at us with a bit of pace and try to play the right way, they’ll be looking to cause an upset."
Leivers encouraged fans to come down to Meadow Lane to cheer on the boys, with him stressing the importance of these sorts of moments providing a crucial part of the young players' development, and hopes for a great atmosphere tonight.
"We’re used to playing in very open facilities, even with 250 people in the Pavis Stand watching our game it creates an atmosphere. Last year the drummer came down, it creates a little bit of a vibe around the place. It’s nice, people giving the lads a bit of support and giving them a taste of what it’s like to play with the first team. They’re forging a career in football and it’s important that they learn to cope with the pressure of playing in front of fans."
Opponents Romulus are no strangers to Notts County, with the two clubs forging links over the years, as Leivers explained.
"Our links to Romulus go back a few seasons now, we brought in Yohan (Rutty-Smith) and Montel Gibson from them and we played them a couple of times in pre-season. We’ve got a good relationship with them and we’re looking forward to them coming here and enjoying their night as well."
Kick off is at 7pm tonight at Meadow Lane, with cash turnstiles available on the night. Entry is as follows:
Adults: £3
Concessions: £1