U18s Boss Confident Ahead Of Luton Clash
Dawes confirmed he will go into the final with a full-strength squad except for injured defender Callum Roberts.
"Being in that situation and in that environment gets them used to playing on the pitch and in front of the crowd,” he said.
“When we played Telford in the Youth Cup early on in the season it was the first time they’d been at the ground and I think the nerves got the better of them.
"In the Shropshire Senior Cup, because they got that experience out the way, they were a little bit more natural going into the game and I thought they did really well and they’ll take that into the game on Wednesday."
Town beat AFC Telford United in the FA Youth Cup at Greenhous Meadow earlier in the season and recently won the Shropshire Senior Cup at the stadium with many youth players involved.
“It’s a great achievement for the Club for the youth team to be in the final.
"It’s the first time they’ve ever been in it. I know Shrewsbury is a really close-nit Town who support the Club and I’m sure a few of them will come down."
"It’s a massive game for us," said Dawes.
"I think all the lads are really looking forward to it and I think, from what they’ve done throughout the season, I think they’ve earned that occasion.
"I just hope they go and give a really good account of themselves and I’m sure they will.
“They’re capable of doing it but it’s going to be a tough challenge. I’ve been watching Luton and they’ve got a very good side who are a little bit older than us but it’s a challenge we’re willing to accept and go and attack.
And Dawes, head of academy coaching, believes the under-18s experience of playing at the home stadium in the past will be important for his side.
The Shrews take on Luton Town in the final at Greenhous Meadow (7pm kick-off) looking to win the competition for the first time in the Club's history.
Ian Dawes is confident Shrewsbury Town can give a good account of themselves and win the Football League Youth Alliance Cup final on Wednesday night.