Cup clash takes priority

Matlock boss Mark Atkins has revealed that their Derbyshire Senior Cup Final against their Evo-Stik Northern Premier League rivals Ilkeston Town is now their top priority, writes Ian Richardson.

With their Premier Division status secure, the Gladiators manager says he'll start rotating his squad after an injury hit season to prepare for the clash against the Robins at Chesterfield's Pro-Act Stadium on Tuesday week [April 30].

Atkins, pictured, said: "We have to concentrate on the Derbyshire Senior Cup Final now and if players aren't fit then I don't want them to play. We want to win that cup and to do so we need our best players fit and available.

"There's no point in risking them now and not having them available for the final, so we'll look at things from game to game and include everyone, the reserves and under nineteen players will play if need be."

Matlock reached safety when they beat Marine 1-0 at home last Saturday thanks to 57th minute Joe Leesley goal and Grantham lost 3-1 at home to Witton Albion. The Gladiators face a trial run against Ilkeston on Saturday ahead of next week’s county cup clash when they meet in the Premier Division at Causeway Lane. On Tuesday night they beat relegation haunted Kendal 3-0 at home.

Tickets for the Derbyshire Senior Cup Final can be purchased during the Ilkeston game at weekend from the club shop. Admission prices have been set at £10 for adults, £5 for concessions and £2 for children under 12. Transport to the final leaves the Reynolds Stadium at 6.15pm with fares of £4 return for adults and £2 for children. Please contact Tom Wright on 07850 065968 for further information.