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.
13. Dylan Hill
Diminutive in stature, but clearly has a heart as big as anybody. The club''s under-18s skipper never stopped running, hassling the opposition and organising those around him. And when he got on the ball, Hill showed good composure, keeping things simple ... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
14. Brad Smith-Howes
Given the final 15 minutes or so in place of Lintott, and didn't look out of place ... 6 Photo: Pete Norton
15. Ayo Luketi
One of the six players to make his debut, Luketi looked sharp when he came on, but had little chance to show what he can do ... 6 Photo: Pete Norton
16. Reuben Wyatt
A late introduction tot he fray for the 16-year-old Wyatt - much to the delight of his personal fan club that had turned out at Sixfields to watch him!! ... 6 Photo: Pete Norton