The group stage of the Checkatrade Trophy came to a conclusion at the PTS Academy Stadium on Tuesday night with the Cobblers knowing a win by two or more goals over Fulham under 21s would guarantee them a place in the knockout stages.

Aaron Pierre almost added to his recent goal tally early on, heading narrowly over from a David Buchanan corner. Jordan Turnbull also saw a shot blocked at close range as the Cobblers looked to make the breakthrough which came on 16 minutes, Aaron Pierre scoring with a powerful header from a Hakeem Odoffin free-kick.

Sam Hoskins quickly doubled the lead, firing a shot past Taye Ashby-Hammond. The Cobblers were looking dangerous with every attack and Billy Waters whipped a shot just wide after a neat interchange with Hoskins. Fulham U21s had one or two half chances but failed to test Lewis Ward in a fairly one-sided first half.

Camron McWilliams came on for the second half, replacing Pierre to make his professional debut. The flow of the game remained the same and a terrific half-volley from Hoskins whistled just wide from 35-yards.

A rising shot from Cameron Thompson was comfortably saved by Ward before Joe Iaciofano came on for Andy Williams. Fulham were starting to pose more of a threat and it needed a good save from Ward to deny Jaydn Mundle-Smith. Shaun McWilliams made way for Sean Whaler in the Cobblers final change as they booked their place in the second round as group runners up.