NEWPORT County youth team boss Glyn Jones believes playing in tonight's Welsh Youth Cup Final is a reward his young charges have fully earned this season.

County take on their Cardiff City counterparts at Ninian Park (7pm) knowing that victory on the night will cap what has already been a terrific season.

County's youth outfit competed in the South West Conference League this season, a tough proposition as the league is comprised almost entirely of Football League teams.

The youngsters acquitted themselves well throughout the league campaign, securing some notable scalps during a disappointing campaign for the senior side.

This has encouraged Jones, who believes the youth set-up at County is the foundation of the entire club.

He explained: "We have all worked very hard throughout the season and the players can feel proud about what they have already achieved this season.

"We are looking first and foremost to develop every player as far as we can and to get them into first team contention, that is the ideal scenario for us.

"Our link up with Hartridge High School has had a really beneficial effect for us and tonight is a great opportunity for the boys to show what they can do, they can reward themselves for a good effort this season.

"It was a big transition for us to make this year, a big step up, but it vindicated the board, who continue to give the youth academy tremendous backing.

"Several of our board members are regulars at our Saturday morning games, so they also deserve some credit."

Jones is aware of the tough proposition Cardiff are likely to be tonight, but is confident his side are up to the task.

"I would consider Cardiff City to be the premier team in Wales, I think everybody would," he said.

"It's a great task for us and we are approaching the game with an emphasis on encouraging a team effort, we want the boys to go out and enjoy themselves and hopefully, with a bit of luck they can get the right result."