Youngsters bow out

Sadly the U18s couldn't produce a giantkilling in the youth cup tonight, going down 2-0 at man utd. Two first half strikes were enough for the home side to go through. Despite a battling second half display, the young saints couldn't find a way back. Lets hope some of these young players come through strongly to the first team, it was only last season that gareth bale was taking part in the very same competition.

If you need something to take your mind off that. I'd like to point you to the Black Panther blog. Whilst mainly about US soccer, it has a strong saints feel:-) Check it out.

Will he won't he?

Today's guardian says that it is Gareth Bale is "90% certain" to be leaving Saints for Man Utd before the end of the month. It says that the probable deal would include a loan-back arrangement until the end of the season. With a fee somewhere between the £5.5 million initial bid and the nearer £10 million saints would be after. To me this would be a real shame for both Saints and Bale. If he and his parents are as happy with Saints as we keep hearing then I don't understand why he won't sign a contract extension, with a minimum fee release clause if we fail to get promoted. That way he can stay at Saints and help with the promotion push. If we fail he can leave, if we succeed everyone can rethink, and it would guarentee Saints a just financial reward.

In other more positive news, I'd like to wish good luck to Georges Prost and his Under 18 side for their FA Youth Cup fourth round tie this evening against Manchester Utd. The game is sadly not being hosted at Old Trafford, but at Hyde park. This is a shame for all concerned as it would have been an amazing experience for the youngsters. Nevertheless it is still a big game!! Good luck and lets hope we can improve on last years performance as beaten semi-finalists (on penalties to eventual champions liverpool). The only major injury doubt for the U18s is captain Oliver Lancashire who is waiting to see if he will be allowed to play in a lightweight cast after breaking his wrist.

If you need some cheering up here's a tune to sooth you.