Coach Joe Flurry believes Newport County Under-18s should 'embrace the opportunity’ ahead of their upcoming FAW Youth Cup semi-final against Caernarfon Town this weekend.
The young Exiles booked their place in the semi-final with a dominant 6-1 victory over defending champions Briton Ferry Llansawel at Old Road earlier this month.
Meanwhile, Caernarfon Town, who compete in the FAW Northern Premier Development League, progressed after securing a dramatic penalty shootout win against Connah’s Quay Nomads.
Flurry is excited about the chance to reach the final on Sunday, and insists his players must fully seize the moment.
“Everyone is really excited for Sunday’s cup game,” Flurry said. “This is the furthest we’ve ever gone in the competition, so it’s a fantastic occasion for both the club and the players.
“I think the players should embrace the opportunity. Sunday presents another big chance to show what we’re capable of.
“The players are in a great place heading into the weekend, and have been for some time. The intensity in training has been really high, and they genuinely enjoy coming in every day. We work hard to keep that consistency week in and week out.
“What you see in training this week isn’t just because we’re in a semi-final, it’s the way we approach every game.
“Our focus this week has been on preparing for the match as we see it unfolding. We expect a very physical and challenging test from Caernarfon, and that’s why they’re in the semi-final – they’re a top side who will be well-prepared for the challenge.
“We’re anticipating a tough, physical game, and probably not much of a passing spectacle. But we know they’ve earned their place in the semi-finals for a reason, so we have to be ready for whatever comes our way.
“We’ll prepare as best as we can, as we always do, and hope to progress to the final.”
He added: “It would be fantastic to make it through, but our message to the players is always to take each game as it comes.
“For us as an academy, reaching the final would be a huge achievement and a clear sign of progress. It would be another testament to what this group of players is capable of.”
