Cup Quarter-Final For Beardsley's Boys

By Dan King - Newcastle United Digital Editor

Never mind Scotland against England - the big game on Tuesday night sees Newcastle United under-21s take on Team Northumbria in the quarter-finals of the Techflow Group Northumberland FA Senior Cup.

Peter Beardsley's side, currently top of the Barclays Under-21 Premier League second division, are bidding to retain the trophy they won last year and have lifted a record 36 times in its 130-year history.

But their opponents lead the Northern League Division Two table and have scored 55 goals in 22 league games and Football Development Manager Beardsley is expecting a difficult night against the side from Northumbria University, who were founded in 1999 as Northumbria University FC before taking their current name in 2003.

"They're a young team that's bounced back from relegation by topping the Northern League second division and we know all about the threat they carry," Beardsley told nusportcentral.com.

"They're scoring an average of two-and-a-half goals a game and conceding less than a goal a game. We know all about their strengths - we've done our homework."

Beardsley's side beat Stoke City live on Sky Sports on Thursday night, with Ryan Taylor scoring both United goals. The Merseysider won't be involved against Team North but Gael Bigirimana and Haris Vuckic are both in contention to start.

And the likes of Callum Roberts, Daniel Barlaser and Liam Gibson, who all impressed against the Potters last week, will also be on duty.

Kick-off at Whitley Park is at 7.30pm and admission is £4 for adults and £2 concessions. Season ticket holders and Members do not gain free entry to this game. Extra time will be played if necessary but if there is still no result after that, a replay will be required.