IT is a big night tonight for Ipswich Wanderers.They play Royston in the final of the Jewson League Under-18 Youth Cup at Soham, and are guaranteed plenty of support with many Wanderers officials and supporters making the trip.

IT is a big night tonight for Ipswich Wanderers.

They play Royston in the final of the Jewson League Under-18 Youth Cup at Soham, and are guaranteed plenty of support with many Wanderers officials and supporters making the trip.

The club's PASE scheme School of Excellence at Humber Doucy Lane is now in its second year and director of coaching Colwyn Rowe is upbeat about the future.

"We are second in the Jewson League Youth league section, and have a chance to win the cup tonight," said Rowe.

"There are lots of lads coming through which can only benefit the long-term future of the football club as a whole."

Linked with Suffolk College, the PASE scheme offers full time football and academic two or three year courses. Last August there were 36 boys.

This summer Rowe wants to reduce this to around 24, and discussions are taking place about opening the Wanderers facilities in Humber Doucy Lane to girls.

"We have had one London Premiership club represented five times in recent youth matches, and Lee McGlone has been training with Ipswich Town for some while now," added Rowe.

Wanderers youth goalkeeper, 16-year-old Jamie Waite hit the headlines last month after becoming the second youngest full international when he was selected for Thailand.

"Our main problem will be holding on to the most talented youngsters. Jermaine Harewood and Jamie Baker have become regulars in our Jewson League, Premier Division side.

"They have one more year's scholarship to run, but after that other Jewson clubs can offer far better financial opportunities.

"Against Ely City recently in the Jewson League, eight PASE scheme boys were featured and in the 2-0 win at Newmarket Town last Saturday six of the squad were in the scheme."

Wanderers are in the bottom four of the midweek PASE league, but this does not concern Rowe. He said: "It is a very high standard, and it certainly does not do the lads any harm to lose at their age.

"It makes them appreciate how to fight for rewards and means that they are stretched every game and should go on and reach their full potential."