The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
Buoyant assistant manager Bobby Patterson has called on Moulton Harrox to put on a show on Saturday as they prepare to host Eye United in the quarter-finals of the Peterborough Senior Cup.
Harrox, who would play Wittering in the last four if they can see off Premier Division rivals Eye at Knight Street (2pm), are the hot favourites to win the ChromaSport PDFL’s supplementary competition.
A 1-0 win at FC Peterborough last weekend ensured that they progressed from the group stage with a 100 per cent record, but Patterson – who made a rare appearance on the field in the victory – has challenged his side to keep that run going.
Saturday’s last eight showdown is the only competitive football match taking place in South Holland, so the veteran defender is hoping fans will take the chance to come and support them for the fixture at Pinchbeck.
He also emphasised that he wants the squad to win the competition for outgoing manager Kev Nottingham and club stalwart Paul Crowson, who are stepping away from the first team at the end of the competition.
Patterson, who will take joint charge of the team alongside Tim Cole next season, feels that lifting the trophy would be a fitting finale for both.
“Year in, year out we’re usually billed as one of the favourites to win the top competitions in this league,” said Patterson. “We’ve earned that right over the years.
“So, of course, we’re the favourites to win this cup. But we’ll take nothing for granted, we need to go out and get the job done.
“Eye made us work very hard for the win in the league before everything was called off. We were 1-0 down with ten minutes to go, so we know they have ability.
“But I want to see us put on a bit of a show. We’ve not been able to play in front of fans, but I think we’re the only game in South Holland on Saturday – maybe a few people will come and give us a look?
“It’d be great to see a few people. We can’t use our own pitch, but Pinchbeck United have been kind enough to offer us the use of Knight Street. Hopefully a few will take the chance to watch some football.
“I’ve said it before, but the aim is to win this competition for Kev and Paul. What better way to honour their achievements here than by winning a cup?”
Harrox are boosted by the return of several key men for the clash, with Ali Morgan, Billy King, Joe Townsend, Andy Law and Dalius Kisla all available for selection.
Meanwhile, fellow South Holland side Tydd face a tough test in the same competition.
The Division One outfit won back-to-back games at the end of the group stage and their reward is a trip to top tier side Peterborough North End Sports (also 2pm).
The other last eight showdown sees Uppingham Town host Stamford Belvedere.
