Colchester United's U18s have been drawn to play Northampton Town in the FA Youth Cup
Liam Bailey and the youngsters will begin their FA Youth Cup journey next week, with a trip to the PTS Academy Stadium to take on The Cobblers.
The U's will be looking to make it through to the second round of what is considered to be the biggest youth cup competition in the world.
Bailey is expecting a tough encounter though, with Northampton starting the season well at U18s level.
He told the official website: "It's a real test for us, they are top of their league, (Cat 3 Youth Alliance), and we'll have to perform to our full potential to win out.
"These cup matches are a good test in themselves for everyone concerned with the U18s, because they are a bit different to the norm.
"Throughout the league campaign, we are looking at development, personal and within a team - but cup games give us an opportunity to see how the lads cope with a 'must win' menality."
Whilst it wasn't Bailey's first choice of tie, he is sure it will be a valuable experience for his young side.
"Obviously, everyone wants a home game in the cup, especially at this early stage.
"At this level, it would have given the lads a rare chance to play a competitive match in front of the first team management and try to impress."
"We've got a game against another league club though so they have the opportunity to play at a league stadium, something they don't do very often either."
The game will kick-off at 7pm on Wednesday 30th October at the PTS Academy Stadium, with admission prices as follows:
Adults £5
Seniors £3
U18s FREE
Please note: There are no pre-sales for the game - only pay on the day admission is available