West Wight take on Isle of Wight champions Shanklin in the semi-finals of the Island Echo Challenge Cup at the County Ground this evening (Thursday).
Shanklin are unbeaten against Island League sides this season. With 4 games remaining, the Blues are currently leading Division 1 by 3 points. The Seasiders are also in the semi-finals of both the Challenge and Memorial Cups.
Can manager Paul Haward lead his side to a historic Memorial, Challenge and Championship treble in his final year as manager?
Paul says:
“As holders of the Island Echo Challenge Cup, we are very keen to keep our hands on it. West Wight will be a tough game on Thursday night, but our preparation and form is still very good, and we go into the game full of confidence.
“In terms of the potential treble…. I’m honestly not thinking about that yet, we still have some very tough games to go, so we will be taking it game by game and see where we are in a few weeks’ time.”
West Wight captain Ash Brett – who led his side to a memorable victory over Wessex League East Cowes Vics in the Gold Cup – has different ideas.
Ash says:
“We’re buzzing for the game on Thursday. Shanklin have been the best side in Island league for the past 2 years so it’s going to take a special performance to be in with a chance of beating them.
“We’re looking forward to the challenge.”
Kick off at the County Ground is at 18:00.
