Harborough Town U18s produced a scintillating display to sweep aside Basford United and book their place in the next round of the FA Youth Cup.
It was the hosts who struck first, catching the visitors cold with an early opener. But that only served to spark Harborough into life, and what followed was a devastating 13-minute spell midway through the first half that completely turned the tie on its head. Four goals flew in as the young Bees carved open the Basford defence with ruthless efficiency, ensuring they went into the interval with a commanding 4–1 lead.
After the break, Harborough showed maturity beyond their years. Controlling possession and dictating the tempo, they refused to let Basford back into the contest. Instead, they turned the screw, adding four more unanswered goals in a second-half masterclass of clinical finishing and disciplined defending.
By the final whistle, the scoreboard read 8–1, a scoreline that reflected Harborough’s dominance but also their composure in the big moments. The home crowd, sizeable and vocal throughout, applauded the Bees off the pitch — a mark of respect for a side who combined flair with hard graft to seal safe passage into the next round.
The next round is a Home Tie vs Gresley Rovers U18’s who beat Deeping Rangers 4-1. All support is welcome 