Mansfield Town under-18s face Burton Albion at RH Academy tomorrow (11am kick-off) as the Stags begin their four-game, Youth Alliance Merit League.
With the traditional 18-match league calendar ending, the young guns will now compete against Scunthorpe United, Burton Albion (on Saturday 02 April), Harrogate Town and Huddersfield Town in a mini table.
This weekend's fixture with the Brewers is one that Stags' midfielder Charlie Carter expects to be a competitive encounter.
"As usual, Burton will be a team that play physically," he said.
"We lost to them narrowly 1-0 the last time we played them, we conceded in the last minute.
"I expect us to dominate possession and play our normal game of keeping the ball and hopefully we'll put in a good performance."
The first-year scholar discussed Mansfield's season so far.
"We’ve done well as a team," said the midfielder.
"We’ve come together on and off the pitch, got to know each other and become really close as the season has gone on.
"That togetherness off the pitch helps as when we’re on it we know what to expect from each other.
"Playing in the FA Youth Cup and getting involved in under-23s’ games have been personal highlights this season.
"Playing against teams like Sunderland and Leeds is great for me to learn and become a better player by competing with some top footballers.
"Between now and the end of these four games, I want to keep playing and get full a 90 minutes in games.
"I’d also like to get more goals and assists to help the team.
"For the squad, hopefully we can finish the season on a high, and win as many of our four games left as possible."
Charlie also revealed his hopes for the 22/23 campign.
"Next season, I want to start well as a second year. I’ll be an older and more experienced member of the group so hopefully I can be a leader, possibly a captain and help us finish near the top of the table."
Supporters are eligible to attend this weekend's encounter with Burton at RH Academy however any experiencing Covid-19 symptoms should not attend.
The venue for the match is: Woburn Ln, Pleasley, Mansfield NG19 7RT.
