Mansfield Town under-18s begin their 2019-20 Youth Alliance Cup campaign this Saturday, when they take on Fleetwood Town under-18s at The RH Academy (12pm kick-off).
The Stags are yet to lose at The RH Academy this season following Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Lincoln City under-18s.
The amber and blue found themselves behind early in the game but claimed a deserved share of the spoils thanks to a stunning volley from striker Jimmy Knowles.
Mansfield last met Fleetwood in the same competition last season, losing 3-2 on their visit to the Fylde coast.
The Stags failed to qualify from the group stage last year, but coach Simon Ward insists they will be trying to win every game.
“We’re here to develop players for the first team, so we’d be liars if we said we don’t want to win games, but our aim is to get players into the first team,” said Ward.
Like the Stags, Fleetwood were eliminated in the group stages last season. The Cod Army are yet to begin their 2019-20 campaign in the Youth Alliance Northwest Division, but Simon Ward knows what to expect from the Trawlermen.
“I’ve seen Fleetwood a few times,” said Ward.
“They play some really good football, it’s a good catchment area so you would expect them to have good players.
“It’s a good challenge and hopefully it’ll be football versus football.”
Supporters are welcome to attend the game for free at the following venue: The RH Academy, Woburn Lane, Mansfield, NG19 7RT.
