Academy teams get it tough in cup

Mar 20 2009 by Mike Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

AYR United Football Academy teams have been given tough ties in the draw for the SFL Youth League Cup.

The under 17s kick off their campaign in section two with a trip to Stranraer on Sunday and will also have to overcome Queen of the South and Dumbarton if they are to progress.

Coach John Stewart is relishing the prospect of his team being in competitive action again after a six week lay off.

He said: “It will be good to get back to playing competitively. We have played a few friendly matches in recent weeks but they can never compensate for competitive action and the boys will be raring to go.”

The under 19s are away to Dumbarton in their first tie this weekend and will also face Morton, Partick Thistle and East Stirling in their sectional ties.

With the Academy already making the preparations for the 2009/10 season, Tom Robertson will be stepping into the role of head coach for the campaign, with Malky Boyle and former under 17s coach Steph Ferguson moving to the under 16s to prepare that side for the rigours of competitive football that they will play when they step up a level next season.

Daryll Jones, a goalkeeper who trains with the under 17 squad, has become the first player from the Academy to be accepted onto the Firstpoint USA scholarship scheme.

The move followed a presentation made by representatives of Firstpoint USA to Academy under 17 players at Ayr College.

Darryl and his parents are currently discussing details with his Firstpoint USA consultant which they hope will result in him being accepted by a top US college in 18 months time when he will be 18.

A trial game has been arranged between an Academy 17/19s team and a group of candidates already selected by Firstpoint USA. The main purpose is to allow a number of US coaches to watch the Firstpoint players and enable them to select those who meet their criteria.

Academy head of youth development Mark Shanks and assistant John Stewart will select the squad for the game, which will be played at Almswall, Kilwinning today (Thursday) at 2pm. Priority will be given to players who are interested in the scheme, so let Mark or John know if you are keen to play.