AFC Bournemouth
Centre-back Ollie Eagle has claimed there is plenty of anticipation amongst the under-18s ahead of their weekend fixture.
James Lowy’s team takes a break from league action for the clash as Swansea City travel to Dorset for a Professional Development League Cup tie.
Speaking to afcb.co.uk ahead of the game, Eagle explained: “We didn’t have many cup games last year but they’re great for us because they give us a separate feeling to the league.
“You play league games every weekend but to have a cup game, it gives a different feeling.
“Apart from the past two weeks, results haven’t gone our way but having this game coming up gives us a fresh start.”
The Professional Development League Cup operates in a group stage format, with the Cherries having already taken on Plymouth Argyle.
Despite that game ending in a defeat, the side have recorded back-to-back victories in their past two games, providing a welcome confidence boost.
“The boys have been in great form as a team recently,” Eagle said. “Last weekend we beat Tottenham 2-0 and the weekend before that we beat QPR.
“The vibe within the team is brilliant and everyone’s confident.
“Sometimes we’ve lacked that, and also a winning feeling, but we’ve performed brilliantly in back-to-back games and we’re getting that feeling back.”
The vice-captain of the under-18s went on to discuss life in category two, claiming his side is acclimatising.
Eagle said: “The demand is much higher than in a category three league because of the quality in the teams that we play week in, week out.
“Personally, I think that makes us better players and the development rate is much quicker for us at this level.
“Slowly but surely, we’re starting to get used to that standard of quality.”
Tomorrow’s cup tie with the Swans is scheduled to kick off at 12.30pm at Canford Park Arena.
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