HULLBRIDGE Sports boss Darren Manning believes the Essex Senior League table-toppers’ under-18 side are stars of the future.

The under-18s booked their place in the first round of the FA Youth Cup, where they will face Peterborough United, after registering a 3-2 win over Aveley at the Ryan’s Heating Stadium.

And Manning, who watched the cup tie alongside his backroom staff and first team players from the stands, was keen to praise the club’s youngsters.

“What they have achieved is absolutely outstanding,” said Manning.

“All of the teams they have played in the competition are at a higher level.

“There is a real togetherness and it was fantastic to watch.

“I was there along with my backroom staff and most of the first team and they were the better side.

“They took their chances and fully deserved the win.

“The under-18s have got Peterborough United in the next round and it will be great to welcome such a big club to Hullbridge.”

A last minute winner allowed Hullbridge to seal their place in the first round of the competition, having already overcome Redbridge, Chelmsford City and AFC Hornchurch prior to the 3-2 triumph over Aveley.

Sports will be looking to cause another upset when Peterborough United, under the guidance of former West Ham United winger Matthew Etherington, visit the Ryan’s Heating Stadium.

And Manning believes the Posh will represent a tough test for the up-and-coming youngsters.

“I think Matthew Etherington was at the game against Aveley,” added the former Grays Athletic assistant manager.

“It’s nice that the boys will get the chance to play against a League One side’s youth team and it will be a good test for them.

“They will be looking to cause another upset and we believe in them.”

Hullbridge have enjoyed an impressive start to the season, with the first team leading the way in the Essex Senior League and the reserves in second place in the Essex Senior League Reserves Division.

While some managers may be eager to give some of the hot prospects an opportunity in the first team, Manning is aware that rushing the youngsters into the side could result in them burning out.

He confirmed: “It’s great that the reserves and under-18s are doing so well, but playing too much football could damage them in the long run.

“I was guilty of that in my playing days and so we are monitoring them.

“When the players are ready, we will give them a chance in the first team.

“But we must develop them and ease them into the first team.”