SAINTS Academy director Huw Jennings hailed the 2005 FA Youth Cup final as a celebration of youth football.

Saints first-ever appearance in the FA Youth Cup final ended in heartbreak, but Jennings backed the academy kids to bounce back

He said: "We found out how cruel this game can be but we showed fantastic spirit.

"It's not about recriminations. It was a celebration of youth football.

"We've seen tremendous potential from both teams, and it was lovely to see the players play with freedom.

"We rose to the occasion but sadly there could only be one winner. But I'm sure a lot of the players out there tonight will go on from here and will show their true value individually and collectively.

"I'd like to pay tribute to the team of staff that have worked with them this season - which hasn't ended yet.

"Who knows when reserve and first team opportunities are round the corner?"

Head of youth Steve Wigley said: "The lads are devastated but they showed character. They went up a notch tonight and will be working as hard on Monday as they did tonight.

"The club is proud of all of them. We are going to grieve this weekend but we'll start again. I thought we were the better side but I have to pay massive credit to Bryan Klug and his staff."

Ipswich coach Klug said: "Saints were well on top, but we got into the game gradually - it was a completely different game to Monday.

"The first game was outstanding, this was more scrappy but Southampton are an outstanding team and will reap the benefits.

"I'm sure they'll be there or thereabouts again next year. I've got nothing but admiration for their set-up."

On Bury St Edmunds-based match winner Edward Upson, Klug added: "We know he's a talent, but putting him on was a risk because he's only very young.

"He has two more years at school but you could see by his distribution that he wasn't fazed."

See Match Reports for Simon Walter's verdict on last night's game.