Juniors Coach Andrew McCutcheon knows his side face a tough group
For juniors coach Andrew McCutcheon it is his first time in charge of a Milk Cup squad.
But he knows all about the competition, having been to year’s of competition around the North Coast.
McCutcheon who has managed in the National Youth League for four years now can’t wait for the Milk Cup to start.
“The Milk Cup is a bit special. This is as big as it has come for me so far. It’s a bit special,” said McCutcheon.
“We’re all excited about the competition. At this stage now we just want to go and get there. The squad has shaped up well and looking at them this week I know that they feel just the same. They just wish they were there playing.’
“I know they are ready to take on the best. They are all buzzing. Players who maybe haven’t performed in recent weeks are putting everyting into their game. They have all stepped up to the plate to give themselves the best possible chance of starting in the competition.”
The Juniors open their account with a really tough one against the Japan national side, but McCutcheon doesn’t mind that.
“I’m glad it’s the opening game for us because the boys will be really up for it. It’s the game they have been distracted by because it is a national side. We know they will be in good condition and have good players, but we are ready for them and if we can get a good result out of it then so much the better.
“So thankfully, it is our first game. They might take time to settle and we might have a chance, although it will be a difficult ask.
McCutcheon knows it is a massive week for his boys.
“They know how difficult it is going to be physically and they have to hold their discipline in all shapes and forms. If we can do that then we will be in with a chance of something, maybe even a cup. No matter what we will try our best.”
Second up for the Juniors is Plymouth and if the Monday game goes anyway well for the Fermanagh men then they will really be up for Plymouth.
“If we draw or narrowly lose to Japan I know the boys will be really ready for Plymouth. The confidence will be there and maybe we can get something out of that.
Striker from America is the third group game and Fermanagh know they will be good athletes.
“Day three may be a bit more difficult with a little fatigue setting in, but it is important that we get our first two days right so that we have a chance on the third,” said the Fermanagh coach.
Overall the Juniors have expectations. McCutcheon says they want to be competitive and play good football.
“We will give all that we can. If we can pick up a few good results then there is no reason why we can’t make a final by Friday.”