The 2 top clubs in Island League football lock horns for the 2nd time in just over a week in the Memorial Cup final at the Peter Henry Ground tonight (Friday).
Shanklin’s ‘Invincibles’ – who have gone through their entire league campaign unbeaten taking 74 points out of a possible 78 to win Division 1 – face their closest rivals Whitecoft & Barton Sports, who finished in the runners-up spot.
W&B’s only defeat of their league campaign came against champions Shanklin. However, the Sandy Lane side took their revenge last Thursday in the Island Echo Challenge Cup final, in which they comprehensively beat the Seasiders 2-0.
This will be Shanklin manager Paul Haward’s final game in charge of the 1st team.
Paul has said of his time with the club:
“I will be stepping down as 1st team manager at Shanklin FC. It’s been a rollercoaster of a ride – lots of ups and downs – but I can honestly say I have loved every minute of it, worked alongside some great coaches, assistants, and excellent reserve team managers, but most of all, got to work with a great bunch of footballers.
“The club is in a very strong place right now, and I really hope this continues.”
No doubt, Shanklin players will be anxious to see their gaffer end his time at the club with a League and Memorial Cup double.
However, it has been a long season for both sides.
Whitecroft & Barton player-manager Gareth True has said:
“In total honesty, I think both sides are struggling to fulfil anything like their strongest sides. The season’s gone on so late. Once again, it’s a shame the people who have got both sides to the final won’t be there to play in it.
“But that is the Island FA, and we will once again go out as underdogs and give everything we have and see where it takes us.”
Kick-off at the Peter Henry Ground is at the earlier time of 19:00
