Tonight is a huge evening for the Imps U18 squad as they prepare for the second-round FA Youth Cup clash against Bolton Wanderers U18.
The game is set to take place at the Toughsheet Community Stadium, kicking off at 7 pm. Imps fans that wish to listen live can do, as the game is being covered by Live Sports FM with Imps fan Chris Bell calling the action. It’s a great opportunity for supporters to listen to the young Imps as they look to progress in the FA Youth Cup.
It won’t be easy – Bolton’s U18s have on fire, sitting atop the EFL Youth Alliance table with an almost flawless record. They’ve dropped just two points in their first nine matches of the campaign and are riding high on an unbeaten streak that now stretches to 16 games in all competitions.
Their last outing was a dominant 6-2 victory over Doncaster Rovers more than two weeks ago and in the first round of the FA Youth Cup, Bolton also made a statement with a 6-0 demolition of Rotherham United.
Sam Tillen’s Perspective
Head coach Sam Tillen shared their thoughts with the official club media ahead of the encounter. He is pleased with how preparations have gone, emphasizing the importance of the team’s hard work leading up to this critical match.
“It has been a good week. We’ve worked hard focusing on the upcoming task – this weekend has allowed us to really prepare for Monday and we feel like we’re in a good place,” Tillen explained. “We’re in the same league as them and they’re top of it. We’re fourth at the moment but only two points behind, so it’s two of the best teams in the league coming up against each other,”
“It’s a tough test as they’re a good side, so it’s down to us to show our best selves.”
The setting also adds a layer of excitement for the young players. Playing in Bolton’s stadium makes for a grand stage, something that will create good memories for the Lincoln players.
“The experience of being in a stadium like that and playing under the lights is a great one that the lads will always remember. For Bolton to be holding it at their ground, which was a Premier League stadium for a number of years, is going to be a great experience for the boys,” Tillen added.
Denny Oliver’s View
Midfielder Denny Oliver, who has been a part of the first team squad this season, reflected on his role in the team and the significance of playing in the FA Youth Cup, where memorable moments are often made.
“I’ve spoken a lot with Sam Tillen and Calum Oakenfold; they want me to control the game and utilise my passing,” Oliver said. “It’s nice that I’m trusted in that role to keep the game flowing, and I get to control the tempo.”
Reflecting on their first round victory, Oliver was optimistic about the team’s approach. “It’s good that we got through comfortably against Lichfield because sometimes you can struggle against lower-league teams. But now we’re all looking forward to Bolton. They’re a very good team, but I don’t think we need to worry. We’ll show them the respect they deserve as we know we’re going to be in a game.”
Where To Listen
With players such as Oliver, a future first-team prospect, set to appear, along with Zane Okoro and Dakara Wifa, this is a great chance for Imps fans to get a sneak preview of what is on the production line. Coverage of the game is available on the Live Sports website with Chris Bell from 7 p.m.
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