Penzance Reserves play their first match in three weeks this afternoon when they travel up the A30 to play New Inn Titans in the semi-finals of the Whirlwind Sports Trelawny League’s Percy Stephens Cup (2pm kick-off).
Penzance’s run to the last four has been impressive, topping their group before winning 2-0 at St Keverne in the quarter-finals. They face a mammoth task though against the Titans who stormed to the Division One title without dropping a single point, beating the Magpies 4-1 at home and 3-0 at Penlee Park. Penzance pushed them all the way in the League Cup though, losing by the odd goal in five to a late strike. New Inn also lifted that Cup, thrashing Newlyn Non-Athletico 8-0 in last Saturday’s final, so are targeting a treble.
“In preparation for the semi-final, our lads have been attending double training sessions on a Tuesday and a Thursday,” says joint Penzance manager Daz Smith. “We have been working heavily on ball retention, pressing, and speed of play as well as practicing penalties…. just in case!
“To have reached the last four of such a prestigious cup competition is testament to how far we have come this season. At the very beginning, we weren't even sure we would have enough players. The lads have really bought into the brand of football we want to play, and I think the growing support for the Reserves shows this.”
Missing from the team unfortunately will be Matt Robinson, Ben Reeve, Lewis Hitchens, Jake Heale and Freddie Neaum. James Payne will captain a squad that also includes Adrian Murley, Josh Whitburn, Josh Reeves, Robertas Samnauskas, Tyler Dayus, Tyler Smith, Harvey Richings, Haidar Fadli, Joel Steel, Kizzy Snowden, Sam Payne, Dylan Walter, Joey Lamb, Connor Thomas and Ilhan Kaya.
Travelling support would be hugely appreciated. The match will be played on New Inn’s home pitch at Illogan Park which is the second the left just after Cousin Jacks chippie. There is very limited parking at the ground, so it would be advisable to park out on the main road. The are public loos on the park, but no other facilities - so bring refreshment.
“I know they will give everything they have, and that's all we can ask,” concludes Smith. “They are a superb group of talented players who have grown stronger together, and I really feel that this is just the beginning of a bright future. One more giant hurdle against a very tough team but, with us as the underdogs with no pressure, who knows what can happen....”
His managerial partner Lee Major adds: “Whatever the result, and hopefully it is fourth time lucky, I'm super proud of this team and what they have achieved this season.”
COME ON YOU MAGPIES!!