Dartford ready for FA Youth Cup third round tie against Chelsea
08:00, 12 December 2013
Dartford’s academy starlets are just hours away from the biggest game of their lives – a trip to Chelsea in the FA Youth Cup.
Five wins and 25 goals have got the Darts this far but tonight’s third-round tie, which takes place at Aldershot Town FC, is a completely different proposition.
Chelsea reached the final of last season’s competition before losing to Norwich in a two-legged final which ended in front of 17,000 fans at Stamford Bridge.
Darts boss Tony Burman, who coaches the youth side as well as the first team, believes the second-year academy players deserve their moment in the limelight.
He said: "It’s fantastic for them. They’re getting their rewards by being drawn in a cup tie against a Premier League side.
"They know it’s going to be tough because they’re up against some of the best young players in the world, not just in England.
"It’s a fantastic experience for them and I’m sure they’ll give it their best shot. Whatever happens, we’re proud of our young guys."
Kick-off is at 7.30pm.