Easington Sports youth's FA Cup run came to an end against a very experienced Northampton Town Side at Sixfields Stadium. Whilst the game ended 9-0, some great memories were made on the night and during this FA Youth Cup run. It is a moment to be proud of reaching the First Round Proper of the FA Youth Cup and the first time in the club's history.

Northampton Town Youth started brightly and were awarded a penalty in the 4th minute which was duly dispatched by Ollie Evans. Evans then scored moments later after some excellent combination play which lead to the star midfielder running through from deep to beat Tom Nash in goal once through one v one.

The early goals settled the Northamptonshire side down and if anything, added to the nerves of the young Easington side. Sports struggled to retain possession and the first half was dominated by a side that included players who have been travelling with the first team under Kevin Nolan. Easington worked tirelessly to close down and to compete, but it was very noticeable the difference in physicality and technical ability between the two sides. As with all games against higher opposition, every slight mistake or player slightly out of position was punished and this is something the Easington players can learn from as part of their ongoing development.

A change to the formation didn't stop the early goal in the second half for Northampton. Tom Nash was unfortunate to be wrong footed by a deflected goal virtually from the kick off to restart the half. That said Sports grew into the second half and playing with less pressure, they did enjoy some spells of possession which got them up the pitch. Playing with two up top alongside each other, Harvey Allen worked two great chances to score with the keeper making a great point blank save and the second deflected just past the post. Sports slowed the scoring rate down and for the last 30 minutes of the match were more competitive.

Easington rang the changes and Jamie Hunter used all 5 substitutes that he could whilst Northampton also brought on some of their younger academy players which made the game more even. The Easington players will certainly remember the occasion and hopefully can reflect on the experience to develop themselves if they wish to progress.

A big thank you to everybody at Northampton Town for making such a great evening possible for the players and management.