Hinckley AFC face Hucknall Town in the United Counties League play-off semi-final on Saturday for the right to contest next week’s final.
AFC come into the game off the back of four straight wins knowing that, if they can make that six, it will earn them promotion.
They have scored 18 goals in the last four games but to reach the final, they’ll have to overcome a Hucknall side who grabbed the final play-off spot last week.
And manager Courtney Belford knows the Yellows will pose a dangerous threat – because of the game against them this year, and because of the momentum they’ll take from earning a play-off spot only last week.
He said: “Both teams will be confident of winning, and it will be down to whoever deals better with the opposition’s strengths on the day.
“We expect Hucknall to be a big, strong and physical side. Hopefully we can spring one or two surprises on them. But a lot of it will be down to whoever wants it more on the day.
“Given the two games against them, this year, I’d probably say to expect goals!”
You can read more from the manager in the matchday programme, available for £1.50 from just inside the turnstiles.
Hucknall come into the game after a 3-0 win over Kirby Muxloe last week, with former Nottingham Forest forward Craig Westcarr their biggest goal threat. He has scored 41 goals this term, including two hat-tricks against Hinckley. Joe Ashurst has chipped in well with 17 while ex-Hinckley forward Grant Ryan is approaching double figures.
The two games this season both saw plenty of goals – a 5-1 win for Hucknall at St John’s Park in October and then a thrilling 5-4 Hinckley win at Watnall Road three weeks ago. Liam Cairns and Ryan Harkin both scored twice that afternoon.
Should the tie remain level after 90 minutes, 15 minutes each way of extra time will be played. Should the scores still be level, the tie will be decided by penalty kicks.
The winners of the tie will face the winners of the other semi-final between Belper United and Radford. Should Hinckley win, that match will also take place at Kirkby Road.
Cash and card turnstiles will both be in operation for the match – and season tickets are not valid. Please arrive in plenty of time with a good crowd expected.
We would also ask supporters to park courteously to residents if parking on the street. Should the car park at the ground become full, the other nearest public car parks are on Stanley Street and Dovecote Way.
Adults: £6
Concessions: £4
Under 16s: £2
