Moors Under-18s boss Stewart Beattie has encouraged his players to embrace the opportunity when they begin their FA Youth Cup campaign at Morpeth Town on Friday (7pm kick-off).

It’s a competition that holds huge importance for youngsters up and down the country and Beattie’s side will hope to create some special memories this season.

Their first challenge comes with an encounter against Morpeth on Friday evening, ironically following in the footsteps of their senior counterparts after The Highwaymen were knocked out of the FA Cup at The Brewery Field last weekend.

Moors enjoyed a brilliant run in 2022/23 when the side reached the First Round Proper of the FA Youth Cup for the first time – and Beattie is hoping the class of 2024/25 can take inspiration from that.

“The lads are all really excited to be involved in such a prestigious competition,” admitted Beattie ahead of the First Round Qualifying tie.

“It’s a big deal for the players and it’s a really good chance for them to show everyone what they’re made of.

“They have been working hard all season, we’re going into the game in great form, and I can’t wait to see the lads giving it their all.

“It’s a great experience for everyone involved to be playing in the FA Youth Cup and hopefully we can create some noise in the competition.

“As managers and coaches, it’s a fantastic opportunity to stretch this group of players against some of their best talent locally.

“The aim for us is to try and reach that First Round Proper if we can and give ourselves memories to cherish, but we have a lot of hard work in front of us before then.”

Kick-off at Craik Park is 7pm and admission is £3 for Adults and £1 for Under-16s.