Young handed skipper's armband

STEVE OGIER says that last year counts for nothing today as Guernsey's under-21s take on Jersey in the Ambassadeur Bowl. Twelve months ago at Springfield, the greens celebrated a resounding 4-1 victory. It was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the year in island football.

But the Guernsey manager pointed out that it was a different story in 2006 when Jersey won.

'Home advantage should be an advantage but the formbook has been thrown away.'

Ogier can near enough pick from a full squad for today's match at The Track.

The big absentee from his line-up is North winger Kyle Stone who has been out recently with knee problems.

But Ogier did also lose goalkeeper Ashley Will-iams this week who has suffered a torn quad muscle. In his place, the island boss confirmed that Bels' Youth One and Guernsey under-18 keeper, Scott Rowe will start.

'Scott's done well this year,' said Ogier.

'I've only seen him play once this year myself, but the reports I've been getting back from Bels and the junior island people, that I trust, have been good about him. I've got no problem about putting him in there.

'He's a big lad and he's got the right physique for a keeper.'

The 17-year-old, 6ft 4in. Rowe is looking forward to the challenge.

'It's my first Muratti so I'm not sure what to expect, he said.

'Hopefully it will be a good experience. I've played a few games in the Priaulx this season and that's given me some confidence.'

Along with Rowe's selection, Ogier also confirmed that Alex Le Prevost will play at centre half to leave the way clear for St Martin's duo Charles Pinsard and Ben Coulter to take up the central-midfield positions.

Le Prevost is usually found in the middle of the park for North but he can do a job in defence as well.

He played there in last year's U-21 Muratti and Sylvans' Naro Zimmer-man who has looked impressive this season, looks set to partner him.

Ogier also announced that he had given the captain's armband to Craig Young.

Utility player Young who has been playing up front for North while the club waits for Simon Tostevin and AJ Saunders to return from injury, has been a revelation this campaign.

The 20-year-old had a bad 12 months off the pitch and with his partner also giving birth to a child, he stayed away from the game.

But he says this prolonged absence has made him hungry again as he will lead the attack with Ross Allen today.

Last year's U-21 Muratti was Young's last game before he stepped away.

'I'm really enjoying this year,' he said.

'With having a year out, I'm now hungry and loving playing football again. That little break has done me a world of good.'

In a warm-up for today, Ogier's team took on North earlier this week and enjoyed a 2-2 draw with the Priaulx champions.

'We're really happy that North gave us a game,' said Ogier.

'A big thank you to North and Mick Le Prevost. It was important for us that we looked at a few things.'

Jersey in their preparations this week faced Coca-Cola Combination League Division One outfit Trinity and came away with a 2-0 victory.

They are flying in a number of university students for this afternoon's clash.

But they have been hit with injuries to key members Matt Brook-land, Graham Ling and Joel Speight.

Despite that, Jersey coach Dave Kennedy says his boys are for up the match.

'We're looking forward to it,' he said.

It kicks off at 2pm, The Track.

Admission is £5.