Garreth Barker talks to www.themillers.co.uk...
Rotherham United are set for the second round of the FA Youth Cup tomorrow night at New York Stadium, with a tie against Leicester City the carrot for beating Bury.
The Millers advanced to the second round stage after defeating Fleetwood Town on penalties and now face Bury, with both sides aware that a victory would hand them a plum tie against the Championship outfit at the King Power Stadium.
Garreth Barker’s side know they are in for a tough game against the Shakers, but the Millers Academy Manager has done his homework, as they prepare for the 7pm showdown tomorrow evening.
“We went to watch Bury, they are a good side and they played well on the night,” Barker told www.themillers.co.uk
“They ended up beating Guiseley 6-2 but we knew plenty about Bury anyway, I have come up against them many times from my time in the North-West and we know we are in for a tough game. To be honest we are less concerned with them, we are more concerned about ourselves and our own performances.”
Barker admitted that whilst he was pleased to advance at the expense of Fleetwood in the first round, he is looking for an improved performance from his young chargers. The first round fixture was the first ever Youth Cup match to be played at New York, but now Barker admits his players will be more familiar with the surroundings and expects less nerves second time around.
“On the evening we tried to play down the game as much as possible but the occasion still got to one or two of the players, because of the build-up and expectation of it being the first game here,” continued Barker.
“They have had their experience now, there should be fewer nerves next time around and they know what the prize is if they win. It will be an interesting evening to see how all the lads cope, hopefully less nerves and we are looking for a display that the lads should have put on first time around.”
With tickets on sale now for the fixture Barker encouraged as many supporters as possible to come down and support the team.
“If anybody does want to come down and watch then please do,” he enthused.
“The support we receive from everyone in the community is very much appreciated by all of the players and staff, the lads couldn’t believe that 600 people had come to watch the first round, it was a terrific response.”
Prices are as follows
Adults: £4
Concession: £2*
*Concession prices are for students in full-time education, over 60s, HM Forces, juniors, juveniles, under 8s and those on higher rate DLA or equivalent. Proof will be required for all age-related concessions.
The club will be opening block seven of the West Stand for this fixture, and block eight for disabled access. Entrance to the ground will be through turnstiles five to eight.
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