There were no expectations at the start of the season that Ben Dawson’s young Magpies would be able secure promotion to Division One of the Premier League 2 this year, but the top youth tier could soon be on the cards.
Our U23 squad will travel to Reading in May for a shot at the Play-Off Final, having ended the campaign in fourth place thanks to a 1-0 win over Middlesbrough at the weekend.
Up until Monday night, it appeared we were set to travel further south for a clash with Southampton, but the Saints’ youth squad humbled Sunderland 5-1 at the start of the week to move ahead of the Royals.
The St Mary’s natives will now host Aston Villa, instead, for their chance at a Play-Off Final place, while we travel to the Madejski Stadium.
Both Semi-Finals must be decided on the night, with dates yet to be confirmed, meaning extra time and penalties may be needed to settle who goes through.
If Villa and we emerge victorious from our respective games, Dawson will be able to seek revenge on the Birmingham-based natives, who beat us in the 2017 Play-Off Final held at St James’ Park.
A Play-Off win may also cap a tremendous campaign for Dawson’s U23s, who are set to face one of Swansea or Everton in the Premier League Cup Final in the coming weeks.