U18 Preview: Saints vs Reading

THE MATCH

Southampton U18 vs Reading U18
Under-18s Premier League
Staplewood Campus
Saturday 30th March, 11am GMT

Southampton's teenagers come into Saturday's meeting with Reading off the back of a memorable visit to Tottenham Hotspur's new stadium seven days prior.

The youngsters were the first to test the turf of Spurs' new home, as it was opened up to 30,000 fans for the first time, and became the first team to score an away goal; Kornelius Hansen finding the net in the second half.

The scoreline wasn't quite as favourable - Spurs running out 3-1 winners - but the experience was valuable nonetheless, and will provide plenty of motivation to round off a productive season with some positive results.

Paul Hardyman's side have four games remaining, including tomorrow, and will be looking to cement their hard-earned position in fourth, with Aston Villa only a point behind.

Their Reading counterparts sit 10th, and were involved in a dramatic five goal encounter with Fulham last time out, which they edged 3-2.

LAST MEETING: Reading 1-3 Southampton (Nov 2018)

COACH'S THOUGHTS: Paul Hardyman

"The experience was excellent," Hardyman began, reflecting on the Spurs trip. "After a very nervous first half, we settled down and gave them a game which was pleasing.

"The lads showed great character, in a very intimidating situation. It was a great learning curve for them to play in front of 30,000 people, it's a fantastic arena.

"It ticked a lot of boxes. I was one of the first off the coach; walking into the stadium it's quite breathtaking. For that opportunity, it was a really valuable exercise for us.

"The result was disappointing but we'll take confidence from the second half, and use that tomorrow against Reading. They'll arrive determined because we've played them twice and won twice this year.

"It's always a competitive game, and I want to do ourselves justice during the final four games of the season."