Chester FC's academy side booked their place in the first round proper of the FA Youth Cup after a resounding 8-0 triumph at Newcastle Benfield last night.

The young Blues side put themselves in the hat with a clinical display in the North East thanks to a stunning four-goal haul from Nathan Brown, a brace from Tom Crawford and solo efforts from Ilan Ap-Gareth and Conor Rowbottom.

Newcastle Benfield were were reduced to 10 men early in the first half at the Sam Smith Sports Ground and Chester took full advantage and put their hosts to the sword in ruthless fashion.

And while the senior side were unable to make the first round of the FA Cup at the weekend, the under 18s fared far better and could land themselves a shot at a Football League academy side in round one.

Last season Chester put on a superb display against Oldham Athletic at Boundary Park, eventually being edged out 3-2 after extra time.