Under-18’s lead coach Charlie Daniels was quick to deflect all the praise onto his players after they beat Everton in the FA Youth Cup Third Round at Vicarage Road last night.

The Hornets were up against opponents from a higher division and with a bigger Academy infrastructure and yet they ended worthy 3-1 winners.

“It’s all down to the players,” said Daniels.

“We gave them the information, they took it on board and they executed it. To concede a goal from a set-piece and to have the courage to come back and score a second and then a third goal I thought was the highlight for me

“I’m really pleased for the lads, they worked really hard for each other and got their just rewards. It was a hard, tough game and we didn’t have much possession, certainly not as much as we would’ve liked or what we would’ve wanted.

“The lads really stuck to the task ahead of them, and we caught them a few times on the counter-attack and scored a lovely goal. We made a few adjustments at half-time, which they responded to.

“We were in control a lot more in the second half compared to the first half.”

Daniels said he had asked his players to be bold and play without fear.

“Some young players could go the opposite way. I’m really pleased because I told them to be courageous, not only in possession, but out of possession,” he said.

“They played the game and the occasion, because it’s a big thing for the club and it’s a big thing for those players. I’m really happy with the way they responded and going forward I’m sure they’ll take that confidence into the next game.”

It capped a great few days for the Academy, who also saw a number of their players feature in the FA Cup tie at Reading on Satyurday.

“We were really proud as an Academy to see those young players play against Reading,” Daniels said.

“Their attitude and endeavour to want to play again tonight shows the character they have. I’m really pleased with all of them. Tobi Adeyemo worked his socks off and really works for the team. He brings everyone else into play.

“Of course, Jack Grieves got his goal tonight and so did Adrian Blake. Harry Amass performed really well as an Under-16, and Michael Adu-Poku came on today after playing 90 minutes on Saturday. He had an impact as well which was really pleasing.”