The all-conquering youth team recorded another win yesterday morning, running out 4-3 winners of their local derby match against Northampton Town. The goalscorers were Daniel Chillingworth, defender Darren Howe, David Bridges and top scorer Nathan Lamey, and the win means the Under-19s stay top of their conference in the Football League Youth Alliance.

Chillingworth was offered a two-and-a-half year professional contract last week after being singled out as a "tremendous prospect" in recent weeks by both Roy McFarland and John Taylor - who ought to know a good striker when he sees one.

Meanwhile Under-15s midfielder Leigh Meddows, who chose United over other clubs to sign a five year contract last year, has received international recognition. Meddows is the most local player in the club's history, living in Ditton Walk across the road from the Abbey Stadium, and last week he was put on standby for England's under-15 development squad.

"It's great for the lad," commented Roy McFarland. "He's an exciting prospect, and it's another big boost for our youth scheme after Adam Tann played for England under-18s."