SAINTS bowed out of the FA Youth Cup following a 4-2 penalty defeat against West Ham United on Friday evening.

Sam Amo-Ameyaw slipped and fired a crucial penalty over the bar after Hammers keeper Fin Herrick saved Aston Daley's penalty. 

Jay Robinson had given Southampton Under-18s the lead just before half time when he met Amo-Ameyaw’s cross at the back post to head home.

Southampton’s lead didn’t last long as the hosts equalled the scoring four minutes after the break through Favour Fawunmi.

Despite both teams having chances to grab a late winner the game, which was a repeat of last season’s semi-final, went to extra time.

Calum McFarlane's side went close in the second half of extra time when captain Tyler Dibling's low cross flashed past the post.

Saints’ starting lineup included Amo-Ameyaw, Dibling and Jayden Meghoma - all three of whom featured for England at the Under-17 World Cup.

Senior team manager Russell Martin was in attendance at Rush Green alongside a number of his backroom staff. 

West Ham will now face the winner of Watford vs Manchester City, which is to be played on Tuesday, December 19, in January.