Thurlow Nunn Premier Division new-boys Ipswich Wanderers are looking to cause a big upset when they host Vanarama Conference North side Lowestoft in the first round of the Suffolk Premier Cup tomorrow night.
Bury Town are the holders of the competition, having beaten Felixstowe & Walton United 4-1 in last season’s final, and they are in action at fellow Ryman Premier Division rivals Leiston tonight, as sides from around the county start to battle it out to for the right to be crowned ‘Suffolk’s champions’.
Arguably the most intriguing tie of the seven midweek fixtures between the counties’ sides sees Wanderers welcome a Trawlerboys outfit three leagues above them in the non-league pyramid.
Having played in the competition for AFC Sudbury and Leiston for a number of years previously, Wanderers skipper David Head is a big admirer of it and cannot wait to try and cause an upset tomorrow.
“It’s a good competition, the Premier Cup,” declared Head.
“With Whitton and us now in it (following promotion from the Thurlow Nunn First Division last season), it’s more competitive.
“It’s a shame Ipswich (Town) still aren’t in it as that pulls the crowds in for the local clubs, but it’s a chance for clubs to be crowned ‘champions of Suffolk’.”
With most of the round one fixtures being played tonight, Head is hopeful that Wanderers can attract a few more through the gate on Wednesday night, especially with Lowestoft’s excellent travelling fan base, who must be delighted at only having to travel across Suffolk tomorrow, as opposed to the long league journeys to the likes of northern-based Hyde, Stockport, Barrow, and beyond.
“I think everyone at the club is looking forward to it,” said Head. “With it being on the Wednesday it should attract a few more spectators. They (Lowestoft) might play a few fringe players but they’ll still be half decent. It gives us a chance.
“Yes, they’re three leagues above us but you never know, it’s cup football.”
Tonight, Leiston entertain Bury in a match-up of last season’s semi-final, while AFC Sudbury visit Kirkley & Pakefield and Felixstowe & Walton host Newmarket. Brantham travel to Hadleigh, Haverhill welcome Walsham le Willows, while tomorrow, Needham Market host Mildenhall. Whitton United have a bye.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here