Chelsea took a giant leap towards the FA Youth Cup Final yet again, but a late goal saw Tottenham Hotspur retain hope as the Blues ran out 2-1 winners in the semi-final first leg.
The Blues, winners in the last three seasons, took the game by the scruff of the neck and almost took the lead in spectacular style when Mason Mount’s whipped free-kick cannoned against the post.
However, they made their pressure tell 10 minutes before the break as Reece James neatly headed a corner into the back of the net.
And just before the half-time whistle went they doubled their advantage as Ike Ugbo sent a powerful header beyond the keeper.Chelsea continued to play with confidence as they zipped the ball around White Hart Lane, and keeper Brandon Austin was forced into an impressive low save to deny Mount from outside the box early in the second half.
Spurs almost got back into the game when Japhet Tanganga strode forward but his low shot was blocked and they got a vital goal with four minutes remaining as Kazaiah Sterling neatly buried a low shot from close range.
Chelsea had a chance to regain their two-goal lead with a late penalty, but Luke McCormick hit the post.
The second leg will take place on Saturday.
