Progression on all fronts was the name of the game for Andy Holdsworth as his Under-18s overcame Preston 1-0 on Tuesday night to reach round five of the FA Youth Cup.
Speaking to swfc.co.uk, Holdsworth explained that his young Owls took a major leap in their development during the S6 success.
He said: “It’s great to get through to the next round in what was a different test in a different environment which is really important for the players.
“They played in a big stadium environment on a big pitch and in front of a crowd at Hillsborough.
“That created an atmosphere for them that they don’t get on Saturday mornings at training grounds so all in all the game was a big step in their development.”
Wednesday progressed after Preston keeper James Pradic deflected a Leojo Davidson corner into his own goal.
Overall, the cup-tie was balanced with chances at both ends and Holdsworth was pleased his side had the edge on the night.
He added: “We went in 1-0 at half time and we wanted them to play quicker in the second half, to do what they do day-in, day-out in training.
“We always knew it was going to be a difficult tie and the hardest of the four games we have had in the FA Youth Cup so far.
“We had to really dig in at times and sometimes it doesn’t matter how you win games as long as you win and that’s the mentality you need in cup games.”
The Owls travel to Blackburn in the fifth round, with the tie scheduled for Thursday 27 January at Ewood Park, kick-off 7:00pm.