Note that this page is from our Gresley Rovers archive. It may not be related to the new Gresley Rovers (formerly Gresley FC until 2020).
Senior Service
Story courtesy of
Midfielder Neil Lovell, who left Gresley Rovers a disillusioned player earlier this season, is back at the Moat Ground.
And tonight manager Frank Northwood give the little man with a big heart a key role as Rovers continue their defence of the Derbyshire Senior Cup.Lovell lines up for Rovers in the berth vacated by Ian Wells, who yesterday began a 56-day suspension, for the quarter-final replay at home to Matlock Town (7.30pm).
Rovers boss Frank Northwood said last night: “Things haven’t worked out for Neil since he left us and he’s been very keen to get back in the Gresley fold.
“Fortunately we never cancelled his registration so he can go straight into our side against Matlock. He should give us a bit of balance.”
Northwood, still bemoaning Gresley’s failure to win at Causeway Lane last week after they had built a 2-0 lead, predicted a thriller.
He said: “We’ve given Matlock a second bite at the cherry and it’s up to us to learn from our mistakes. It sets up an entertaining game.”
Rovers have the incentive of a possible showdown with neighbours Stapehill in the final, but they face a tough semi-final trip to Buxton or Alfreton Town if they can see off Matlock.
The Swans, meanwhile, have been presented with a golden opportunity to reach the final for the first time in their history after being drawn at home to Borrowash Victoria in the semi-final.
Stapenhill boss Mick Allsop said: “It won’t be easy, but we’ll never get a better chance of making the final, especially if we get a lot of vocal support. I’ve seen Borrowash play and they’re a hard side to break down, but we’ve got home advantage and we can’t ask for any more than that.”
