WATFORD'S Academy had their most successful day at the Milk Cup so far with the two squads scoring a total of seven goals - and the senior side making it through to the semi finals to face Manchester United.

Mark Warburton's under 17s squad faced Drogheda United at the Ballymena Showground in the Premier section, and put on a pulsating performance, knocking four past the opposition to win the quarter final tie 4-0.

Kicking off at 6pm the Golden Boys lived up to the belief shown in them by the Academy staff and came flying out of the traps.
 
Second year scholar Marvin Sordell opened the scoring and then Hungarian goalkeeper Bo Antal came to the rescue - saving a penalty to ensure the Hornets kept a clean sheet.

It was then forward for the 'Orns as they attacked the opposition and first year scholar Matthew Whichelow grabbed a superb hat-trick, scoring his first just before half time.

Understandably Academy boss Mark Warburton was proud of his team. He said: "We played very well this evening and overall controlled the game and the lads showed they have grown up.

Three of the best for Matthew Whichelow

"They were a physical side and we withheld a 10 minute spell of heavy pressure from them, but it was so pleasing to see such a professional performance from the boys.

"We broke quickly on the counter attack and by the end of the game had five under 16s playing - which is a credit to them, their families, the club and The Harefield Academy.

"It's a big game and test against Manchester United - but it's just another game. What they have to remember now is that it isn't the final - they can't let themselves be overawed."

United have a huge following in Northern Ireland so a bumper crowd will be there tomorrow (Thursday) to witness the game and for many of the boys it will be the largest crowd they've played in front of.

The Red Devils came through their quarter final tie against Cherry Orchard, wining the clash 5-1.           

So far the senior squad is coping with the demands of the tournament and only a few niggling injuries are reported.

The senior squad warm up for the quarter final fixture

Physios Neil Greig and Michelle Gray are putting in lots of hours to make sure the boys are in the best of shape.

The Milk Cup is now in its 26th year and is one of the most respected youth tournaments in the world, attracting a host of teams from all over the world.

Earlier in the day, Nick Cox's under 15s side, who are competing in the junior section, faced Dundalk SL at the Riada Stadium in Ballymoney in the Dunluce Trophy quarter finals.

They finally got the breaks in the game, after two frustrating performances, and more than deserved their 3-0 win.

Midfielder Charlie Kasler netted once while Watford's man of the match Bernard Mensah bagged two vital strikes to complete the win.

Bernard Mensah produced a fine performance for Cox's team

Cox is the Assistant Academy manager for 12-16s and said: "We got an early goal today and that set us on our way.

"In the end they became stretched and we made the most of this and could have scored five or six."

The younger Hornets will now play Co. Londonderry in the Dunluce Trophy semi-finals at Parker Avenue, Portrush - kick off is at 1.30pm tomorrow (Thursday).

Keep checking www.watfordfc.com for all the latest news concerning the Milk Cup.

Check out the excellent BBC Northern Ireland sport website here which features videos from this year's tournament. 
 

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