With manager Jon Brady opting to rest the bulk of his senior players, the spotlight was switched to the future of the Cobblers.
No fewer than seven teenagers were in the Town starting line-up, including 18-year-old first year professional Jack Connor who made his full debut for his hometown club.
The striker was joined by five other youngsters taking their first team bow from the bench across the course of the evening, and it total 11 homegrown teenagers took to the pitch.
And the youngsters did themselves proud, putting in a disciplined and organised performance against a strong Cambridge side, who needed two goals in the final quarter of the match to claim the victory.
Here are Jeremy Casey’s ratings… all pictures by Pete Norton.
5. Ryan Haynes
Haynes found himself in the unusual position of being a senior starter, and although he did nothing spectacular, he was part of a disciplined defensive performance ... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
6. Liam Cross
Cross started the match very brightly and was unlucky to be denied what looked a good goal by the assistant's flag. The 19-year-old was keen to carry the ball at every opportunity and certainly caused Cambridge a few problems ... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton
7. Ben Fox
Although 24, Fox has minimal EFL experience, and this appearance was all about getting minutes in the legs of the former Grimsby Town man. Was neat and tidy and led the youngsters around him by example in the opening 45 minutes ... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
8. Peter Abimbola
Abimbola has already had a couple tastes of first team action, and he looks so at home even when up against seasoned EFL central midfield campaigners, as he was in this game ... 7 Photo: Pete Norton