7 Elite Academy Director Anthony Godfrey has challenged AFC Liverpool’s Under-18 players to savour the occasion in Saturday’s FA Youth Cup encounter with Curzon Ashton.

The Merseyside youngsters take on Curzon at the Marine Travel Arena (3pm) in the First Qualifying Round of the competition, following a 6-0 drubbing of Cheadle Heath at the previous stage.

As part of a sponsorship deal with AFC Liverpool, 7 Elite Academy operates the club’s Under-18s team. That group of players is yet to drop a point in the league this season.

The winners of Saturday’s game will move a step closer to entry into the draw for the First Round Proper, when Football League clubs enter the competition.

Godfrey said: “The first game a few weeks ago was a fantastic occasion, but that’s history now. Our only focus now is to continue the development of this group in the FA Youth Cup.

“I’m excited that our boys have got themselves into another round in this cup and for them to have hopefully another great experience in this competition in front of many friends, family and fans of AFC Liverpool.”

Former Liverpool and England defender Stephen Warnock, who works with 7 Elite players as part of the academy’s coaching team, also gave the squad his backing.

Warnock added: “The FA Youth Cup has launched the careers of some of biggest players in football and every game in the competition is a chance to impress.

“This group has consistently proven itself so far this season, both in training and during games. I am looking forward to them continuing that remarkable progress on Saturday.

“The experience of playing in these sort of games, in front of a big crowd, is vital to a player’s development. It is something that can’t be taught on the training ground.”

The previous game saw over 230 fans pack into the Marine Travel Arena and with the club having secured a coveted 3pm kick-off slot, AFC Liverpool Chairman Chris Stirrup is looking forward to more of the same.

He said: “We want AFC Liverpool fans, young and old, to enjoy the atmosphere on Saturday afternoon. This will be another great occasion for the club and of course the players.

“With our first team not having a game, we’re expecting another big crowd to back the lads in the FA Youth Cup. The Marine Travel Arena is the perfect venue.

“I am delighted to see how well our Under-18s are performing under the guidance of 7 Elite Academy. They are working hard to continue the tradition of our youth players progressing into the first team.”