Boss Danny Hussey doesn’t believe that the recent bad blood between Holbeach United and Cogenhoe United exists anymore ahead of Saturday’s showdown.
The two Uhlsport UCL Premier Division sides have built up something of a heated rivalry over the past few seasons – which has included Cogenhoe turning up for a game that they didn’t know was postponed and a match being abandoned due to Holbeach’s Dan Dougill breaking his leg.
However, the entire Cooks management team and playing roster made the switch to Wellingborough Town over the summer.
Hussey hopes that it’ll be a fresh start for the two teams and is hopeful that his Tigers will continue their recent upturn in form.
“I’m aware that there has been a big rivalry between the two teams in recent years,” said the Holbeach chief. “It was evident when we went there last season.
“Their manager has moved on and hopefully the bad feeling has gone with him.
“Regardless, I know it’ll be a hard game for us. They’ve only won once in the league, but have proven hard to beat.
“I know a lot of the Wellingborough Town team has gone there – and that was always a difficult fixture.”
Hussey is also hopeful of seeing his side continue their recent improvement in the Carter’s Park clash.
Since venting his feelings about Holbeach’s shortcomings and admitting he was considering his future as boss, the Tigers have been much improved – battering Whittlesey Athletic 5-1 in the KO Cup and defeating Rugby Town 3-1 on Saturday.
He’s hopeful of seeing more of the same on Saturday and has been delighted with his squad’s response to his words.
Hussey added: “The improvement started against Whittlesey and went up again against Rugby.
“I want to see the same work-rate, mentality and application from the lads. If we do that, I’m confident of getting another good result.”
In-form midfielder Luke Avis misses the fixture, while defender Joe Braithwaite and striker Michael Frew remain sidelined.
Ryan Oliver and Joe Smith should be fit to feature again, though.
Holbeach are also in action on Wednesday night when they host Rothwell Corinthians (7.45pm).
