In the opening round of the National U18's cup, Boots progressed into the last 32 with a 4-3 win over Bourne Deeping.

In one of the last games to be played at NTU before the refurbishment of Lady Bay, the U18's boys took on Peterborough side Bourne Deeping. It is the first time that Boots have entered a team in this national tournament so it was a complete unknown for them.

With a squad of 12, only three were in the U18 age group, the rest beng U17. It was a great advert for the junior development of the club, as the majority of the squad have come through the Academy (5 even played in the U10's 7-a-side county cup, seven years ago) and are still playing, now in the adult section high up the club.

The game started well for Boots, they dominated the early stages and had plenty of possession and territory. Somehow they managed to find themselves 2-0 down after a couple of defensive lapses let in Bourne Deeping. With good resolve, Boots hit back and by half time the scores were level. Both were scored by Dan Culpin, the first a lifted shot past the keeper. the second a clinical finish at the far post. A draw was probably about right at half-time but Boots could play better than they had so far.

In the second half, Boots again managed to find themselves behind. Play had been scrappy from both sides, but going behind seemed to spur Boots on. They started to turn the screw and dominated the remaining portion of the game. Buit would they get the goals needed.

Parity was restored when a clever short corner delivered the ball to Connor Marshall who lifted it past the keeper. More chances followed and only some bad luck prevented Mike Kerr from increasing the lead.

As full time and flicks approached, Boots scored the winner. Bourne Deeping had not learned from the previous goal and an identical short corner allowed Connor Marshall to win the game for the home side.

It was a very exciting match, which both sides contributed to.

The next game is on the 5th October, the draw to be made later this week.

Team: Lewis Mawer (GK), Ed Bemand (Capt), Sam Holley, Aidan Stone, Tom Palframan, Jim Caron, Dan Culpin, Montel Foster, Connor Marshall, Lui Holliday, Lewis Griggs, Mike Kerr.

Umpires: Sam Wilson, Ben Bhabra