TREVOR Wardlaw today said that half his Claydon side that will face Achilles in the Omnico Cup tomorrow have already played senior football.“And the other half will,” he added.

Elvin King

TREVOR Wardlaw today said that half his Claydon side that will face Achilles in the Omnico Cup tomorrow have already played senior football.

“And the other half will,” he added. “Hopefully with Claydon if they show the right patience.

“It is up to the Dad's Army section of my team to guide the youngsters along.”

Wardlaw, who has plenty of senior managerial experience with clubs like Stowmarket Town, Debenham Leisure Centre, East Bergholt, Framlingham Town and Ransomes, is expecting a tough test in the third round tomorrow and says it will need an outstanding display by his side to win through.

He went on: “I saw Melton St Audry's in the previous round as a test of how far we have come, and how far we need to travel to bring senior football to Claydon.

“We passed that test, but this will be harder with Achilles having an exceptionally strong squad and like Old Newton still on a roll after gaining promotion last term.

“They will be confident, and this is a big thing in football, and if we get closer to them than what Westerfield did in the last round when they lost 7-1 I will be happy.”

Claydon have not lost a league game since October, and after a poor start to the campaign they have not given up hope of promotion to Division One.

“I have not given up hope,” added Wardlaw, “But it will take a series of good results.”

Martin Pilborough may be 40 but his pace can still not be underestimated while Danny Cattermole, and Shaun Watson also add valuable experience to the side.

“Our plan was to get through the early stages and then take what comes when the senior sides come into the draw,” added Wardlaw.

“Everything is a bonus for us now in the Omnico Cup, and as we haven't played since we beat St Audry's we are still in good spirits.”

In the other fourth round matches scheduled for tomorrow, Old Newton face junior opposition in Stanton while junior clubs AFC Crowley and Henley Athletic meet at Barretts Lane, Needham Market.