WATFORD'S First Team Coach David Kerslake was disappointed by the midweek exit from the FA Youth Cup, but insisted it was an important learning curve for the Under-18 side.

The young Hornets were beaten 4-0 by Chelsea at Vicarage Road in the Quarter Finals on Wednesday, but Kerslake insisted it was important for the progression of the Academy.

"Youth football is all about development," he said, "and I'm sure they'll learn from their mistakes.

The Golden Boys never got into their flow against the west Londoners and the expensive recruits from Stamford Bridge took full advantage by marching on to the Semi Final.

Kerslake added: "We'll make sure we maintain that positive feel throughout the club which has been here all season as we look to push them on.

"They'll be playing in reserve team games, Academy matches and of course they're all fighting for contracts so they've got plenty to look forward to."

Chelsea's win on Wednesday night marked the end of a memorable cup run for the Hornets, which included a superb 1-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield, the experience of which will be highly beneficial to the youngsters.

First Team Coach David Kerslake

"To go to Anfield and win is impressive at any level and the manner in which we did it was very pleasing," Kerslake recalled.

"To go from a performance like that to Wednesday night is frustrating, but even with the best sides in the world consistency is what all managers and coaches strive for.

"We have to be mindful that they are only youngsters and they will make mistakes but as long as we learn from it we'll be heading in the right direction.

"A key part of progressing in football is how you deal with disappointment," he said, "and we're looking for the boys to roll their sleeves up, dust themselves down and go again and I'm sure they've all got it in them to do that."

By James O'Connell