Pinchbeck United Sunday have an afternoon kick-off this weekend as they bid to reach the Lincolnshire Sunday Cup semi-finals.
Tom Roberts’ side – unbeaten in Spalding Sunday League this season – host Gainsborough’s White Horse at Knight Street (1.30pm).
Pinchbeck will be without skipper Jon Fairweather and injured Jonny Clay, and thought they would have former Spalding United and Wisbech Town striker Tom James available, but his return travel arrangements after a year in Australia have altered.
It will be a tough task for Roberts’ side – bidding to become the first Spalding side to win the county competition.
White Horse are top of Division One in Gainsborough and District Sunday League with a perfect eight wins, conceding just four goals and scoring 33.
Roberts said: “On paper it looks to be the hardest draw we could have got as they have a very similar record to ourselves.
“On the flip side I did get to watch them when we were playing in Gainsborough and they look a very well-organised, physical side.”
He added: “Preparing for these big Sunday games can be hard work as you are always hoping that none of the lads pick up injuries for their Saturday sides.
“As in all knockout cup football, it doesn’t matter how pretty it is just as long as you get the right result.
“With it being an afternoon kick-off I’m hoping quite a few local football fans will venture out and support the boys as it certainly has all the ingredients to be a classic.”
Pinchbeck lost top spot in Spalding Sunday League last weekend.
While they were involved in John Chappell Shield action – Wisbech Town striker Josh Ford scoring six times in a 9-3 win at Swineshead Institute Sunday – Sutton Bridge’s 4-1 win over Mulberry took them to the top of the table.
However, Pinchbeck have five matches in hand and remain hot favourites for the title.
In the other John Chappell Shield tie, Tom Cherry, Daniel Bergin and Josh Grainger each scored twice as Brennans Sports won 8-0 at Spalding Seas End Wanderers.
