CHRIS Allen is hoping Oxford United’s youngsters can make an impact in the FA Youth Cup this season.

A 3-0 win over Didcot Town on Wednesday night saw United safely through to the second round.

A trip to either Southend United or Maidstone United awaits.

Allen’s side made it to the third round last season, eventually losing 3-1 against Barnsley at Oakwell.

After making a strong start to their league campaign this season, the U’s youth team coach is eyeing another run in a competition the players regard highly.

He said: “If we can do something like that again and move a bit further that would be fantastic.

“We’ll focus on the next one and see what happens first.

“The players love the competition. For me it’s just another game because I’m an old head and I’ve been through it, but for them you can see the nerves jangling.

“It’s different from a league game, they seem to raise themselves that little bit more.”