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Watson Hoping For Big Cup Crowd
Written by Newcastle Utd
Under-18s Coach Dave Watson has called on the Toon Army to roar Newcastle's youngsters on to victory at St. James' Park on Tuesday night
By Dan King - Newcastle United Digital Editor
Dave Watson has called on the Toon Army to roar his Newcastle United youngsters on to victory in Tuesday night's FA Youth Cup quarter-final against Chelsea.
The Magpies were backed by a crowd of 3,501 at St. James' Park when they beat Sunderland 4-0 in the fourth round, and Under-18s Coach Watson believes a similar show of support could make all the difference in the 7.05pm kick-off against the Blues.
With tickets just £3 for adults and £1 concessions and the sun shining, the game offers the Club's passionate fans a great chance to see the next generation of United stars in action.
Adam Armstrong, who has scored four goals in the tournament already, has been regularly involved at first-team level in recent weeks while the likes of Olivier Kemen, Rolando Aarons and Lubo Satka will be keen to keep on catching the eye of Alan Pardew.
Chelsea have won the competition twice in the last four years but Watson knows that home advantage can make all the difference - particularly if the supporters turn up in their numbers.
"It would be fantastic - the more the better," the former England and Everton defender told nufcTV.
"It creates a little bit of atmosphere about the place and the lads would love it. I'm sure it would get a little bit more out of them.
"So rather than sitting on your backside listening to it on the radio or something, get down there and watch it!
"We have got a good group of players. We're happy with the group of lads we've got and I'm really looking forward to it on the night because our lads will be right up for it.
"They're really looking forward to it. It's all about the Youth Cup - we've had our players working together for a few days and we're all ready for it.
"We know it's going to be a really big challenge but we feel we've got a group of players that can rise to the challenge and hopefully that'll happen on the night.
"Playing at the big ground is a delight for the kids and they've already experienced it so now they'll be a little bit more used to it."
Admission at St. James' Park on Tuesday, 11th March (kick-off 7.05pm) will be £3 for adults and £1 concessions