Stockport County 0-2 Southampton
The FA Youth Cup sponsored by E.ON
Fourth Round Proper
1pm, Wednesday 10 January 2007
Staplewood

Stockport County youth team manager Craig Madden was in philosophical mood after watching his side go down 2-0 at Southampton in the Third Round of The FA Youth Cup.

County put up a brave fight against the 2005 finalists, but two goals in three second half minutes saw the Cheshire side make the long journey home disappointed.

However, Madden's side weren't without their chances as James Vincent and leading scorer, Chris Coward, both missed excellent first half opportunities.

The Saints, who Madden admits have one of the best youth Academies in the country, weren't so generous in the second 45 minutes as they turned the screw.

And their pressure paid off with two quick-fire goals. Matthew Patterson set up Jamie Hatch for the opener on 72 minutes, before Michael Byrne fired in a second to stun the Hatters.

Defeat meant County missed out on the opportunity to play giants and neighbours, Manchester United, in the next round.

Madden said: "They were better than us and we were well beaten on the day.

"We put up a good fight and we had a couple of chances, but we just couldn't find that bit of luck you need. We've not done ourselves justice in terms of performance, but that's football.

"I told the lads afterwards to keep their heads up. We're still at the top of the league and a number of them will be looking to win a contract this season.

"We usually create a lot of chances but fair play to Southampton. They nullified us, played a good system, and fully deserved their victory."