Our under-18s begin their FA Youth Cup campaign with a short trip to Hertingfordbury Park to take on Hertford Town on Tuesday, December 3. Kick-off is at 7pm (UK).
The team will be looking to bounce back from our 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace in the Premier League Cup last time out. Under the guidance of new head coach Adam Birchall, our young Gunners will aim to get their FA Youth Cup journey off to a strong start.
The Opposition
Hertford Town's under-18s have enjoyed a sensational run in the FA Youth Cup already this season, making history by reaching the third round proper for the first time. Their journey has been nothing short of remarkable:
- Preliminary Round: Cheshunt 0-3 Hertford Town
- First Round Qualifying: Boreham Wood 1-3 Hertford Town
- Second Round Qualifying: Hertford Town 6-0 Colney Heath
- Third Round Qualifying: Hertford Town 3-0 Sudbury
- First Round: Hertford Town 3-2 Cambridge United
- Second Round: Hertford Town 4-3 Bristol Rovers (AET)
Having already defeated two EFL sides—Cambridge United and Bristol Rovers—Hertford Town will approach this match with confidence and belief in their ability to cause another upset especially as they’ll have the home crowd on their side.
FA Youth Cup History
The FA Youth Cup has long served as a platform for young talent to shine. With seven titles to our name, we are the third most successful club in FA Youth Cup history.
Our last triumph came in 2009, with a team that included former under-18s head coach, Jack Wilshere. Since then, we’ve come close to adding another title, reaching the final in both 2018 and 2023, but falling to Chelsea and West Ham United, respectively.
As this year’s campaign begins, our young Gunners will be looking to build on this proud history and bring the trophy back to north London.
How to Follow
You can also stay up to date with live commentary on our academy’s X page. A full match report will be available on Arsenal.com shortly after the final whistle.
Post-match, don’t miss exclusive interviews with Adam Birchall and one of our young Gunners, along with highlights of all the action.
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