The quarter-finals of the GH Corlett Woods Cup takes centre stage for second division sides this weekend.
Pulrose United remain on course for a league and cup treble, with the Reds sitting pretty at the top of JCK Division Two and with Woods Cup and Gold Cup glory in their sights. But they face a tough test of their credentials this Saturday when they travel to Onchan to take on the Os at the Nivison Stadium.
Pully’s winning run was brought to an end last weekend when they were held to a draw by Ramsey in the north of the island, so they’ll be eager to bounce back.
The Os have had an inconsistent season but good results against the likes of RYCOB and Foxdale show they can mix it with the best on their day. This has the potential to go the distance and may require extra-time and even penalties, but Pully will start as favourites.
Another close game looks in prospect at Garey Mooar where Union Mills take on Foxdale. The visitors currently lie fifth, six points and places better off than the Millers, but Dale have stuttered somewhat in recent weeks and have lost ground in the promotion race.
The sides have yet to meet so far this season but home advantage may well prove key for the Millers. Both teams lost last time out and therefore will be desperate to bounce back in this one, so this is another clash that could go the distance.
The cup provides a welcome distraction for Gymns and Ayre United who lock horns in Tromode. Both lie in mid-table with little to fight for, so each will be keen to embark on a good cup run.
Form suggests an Ayre win, especially after their impressive win over Onchan last time out, but on their day Gymns can cause problems for most teams in the division so it could go either way.
The final Woods Cup game this weekend kicks off at the slightly later time of 2.30pm at Bemahague where Governor’s Athletic host Ramsey.
All signs point to a comfortable win for the northerners, with Athletic currently bottom of the table while Ramsey are flying in third and will be confident of a comfortable win.
There is also a rearranged FA Cup game at Blackberry Lane where DHSOB will be hoping to avoid an upset at home to Malew.