Lilywhites ‘buzzing’ for Premier final

Steve Halford

MOSSLEY boss Steve Halford has urged his in-form side to win the Manchester Premier Cup in style tonight.

The Lilywhites are the current holders of the famous old Manchester County FA trophy, but they only prevailed by default this time last year after Dave Pace’s Droylsden could not raise a team for the final at Hyde United’s Ewen Fields ground.

This year’s final will take place at Stockport County’s Edgeley Park home (7.45pm kick-off) when Evo-Stik League Division One North rivals Salford City will definitely provide the opposition.

Player-manager Halford said: “Of course last year turned out to be a real disappointment, but there’s a real buzz about the place ahead of the final.

“The players have a great chance to take home a winner’s medal and it promises to be a top night for our fans.

“We’re going to play at a top ground, so it’s a real chance for all the players to show off their talents in front of a much bigger crowd than they'll be used to.

“Hopefully there will be 500 or more there — that can be an inspiration for the players in itself.”

Midfielders Lee Rick and Lewis Nightingale, along with striker Chris Denham, will be Mossley’s only definite absentees tonight because all three are cup-tied.

Left-back Adam Mather faces a late test on a troublesome back injury, but Halford hopes he’ll be okay.

The Lilywhites, who have won their last three games, have taken four league points from Salford this season, courtesy of a 2-0 away win in October and a 2-2 Seel Park draw last month.
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