Match Preview

CUP FEVER HITS LEICESTERSHIRE!

The FA Cup begins for the Owls on Saturday at the Preliminary Round stage with a trip to the East Midlands to face Loughborough University.

After the disappointment at Ossett United, Clee will be very keen to bounce back and embark on a money-spinning run in the World's greatest knock-out tournament.

Coincidentally, last year's first match in the competition was also in Leicestershire against Birstall United. Everyone will be hoping for a similar 3-0 outcome. Danny North is pictured celebrating his goal alongside Alex Flett. All the action came in the second half, with Luke Mascall and Jack Richardson also on target. Unfortunately, the Owls bowed out in the next round against Atherton Collieries.

This is our fifth outing in the Cup and our best was achieved in the debut season of 2014/15. Borrowash Victoria, Gresley and Carlton Town were all defeated, before North Ferriby United proved too strong in the 2nd Qualifying Round. We will be endeavouring to continue our tradition of always winning at least one match in the tournament.

The Scholars ply their trade in the Midland League Premier Division (one level down from the Owls) and have had a modest start, taking 4 points from a possible 15. We have met our opponents once before. In September 2014, the University was defeated 5-2 in an entertaining FA Vase encounter at Bradley. Darren Hanslip, Jack Debnam, Marc Cooper and Alex Flett hit the net, with the other coming via an own goal.

So, the Owls certainly start as favourites but nothing can be taken for granted. We will need to be on our guard to avoid the dreaded Cup upset. As always, all support is very welcome and the match details are below.

Loughborough University
FA Cup Preliminary Round
Saturday 25th August - 3pm

University Stadium
Holywell Park
Loughborough
LE11 3AJ (for sat nav users)

Adults £5, Over 60s £3, Students & under 16s £1

If the scores are level after 90 minutes, the replay will be at New Linden on Tuesday 4th September - 7.45pm.

UP THE OWLS!