Garreth Barker talks to www.themillers.co.uk...
Rotherham United Academy manager Garreth Barker is relishing the prospect of another home tie in the FA Youth Cup ahead of next week’s clash against Mansfield Town.
The Millers take on the Stags at the AESSEAL New York Stadium (Wednesday 15th November, 7pm) with the incentive of being in the hat for the third round where the Premier League’s top academies enter the competition.
After defeating Bottesford Town in round one at AESSEAL New York, Garreth is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to once again showcase the next generation at the home of the Millers.
“To have over 300 fans here for our first round tie against Bottesford was fantastic,” Garreth told www.themillers.co.uk
“To play at the stadium in front of a crowd is a huge part for the development of the lads, and they are all looking forward to playing at AESSEAL New York again next week.
“All support on the evening would be greatly appreciated, tickets are on sale now.”
Mansfield defeated Grimsby Town to advance to round two, as two of the regions in-form academies battle it out for place in the hat.
Barker is aware of what awaits, conceding he expects a stern test, but will be looking to use home advantage to give his side the extra edge on the night.
“We have made a good start to the season in the Youth Alliance League, and have seen some of our academy prospects feature for the first-team which is great to see,” he added.
“After such a fantastic start it would be terrific if we could then advance to round three, where the prospect of drawing one of top clubs is a huge incentive.
“Mansfield will be thinking exactly the same, and in recent years they have been very strong at youth level, so make no mistake this will be tough. We played them earlier in the season and drew 1-1, and I remember it being a really hard fought point.”
Tickets are on sale now, click here for full ticket information.