Hallam FC manager and life-long Sheffield Wednesday fan, Craig Denton is confident that his side can cause a cup upset against Worksop Town.
Denton, 38, led his side to a remarkable season so far, winning promotion to the Northern Premier League – East Division via the playoffs during a nail-biting penalty shootout against Beverley Town at Sandygate Lane.
“It was a relief in anything, to come back from 2-0 down and then to go and win it on penalties. My players gave everything to that game, and they deserved a break, the lads had a week off, but they will be ready to go again when they return to training next week.” Denton explained.
Now Hallam FC turn their attention to the Senior Cup Final which is set to be played at Hillsborough stadium on 8 May, a change that was welcomed by Denton and his players.
“I was delighted when I was told that the game had been moved to Hillsbourgh, its logistically the best decision for both teams and the fans.
“This will be my first time leading a team out at Hillsborough, I had been there for charity matches when I worked there but this time its going to be something special when I lead my players out onto the Wednesday’s hallowed turf.” Said Denton.
The original stadium of choice for this final was supposed to be the New York City Stadium, the home of Rotherham United, but due to unforeseen circumstances the final had to be moved to Hillsborough instead who has hosted this event for the past three seasons.
These two sides have only met twice in their history, resulting in a Worksop 4-2 win and a 2-2 draw. But this time Denton is at the helm, and they go into this final on the back of a 19-game unbeaten run and is confident the experience in his side can over come a very good Worksop Town.
“We have a lot of players that have played at step 2 and 3, they know what to expect and we will be prepared for whatever they can throw at us and we would love it if we went there and win another trophy.” Denton explained.
Ahead of the final the only doubt for Hallam is they may be missing ex-Sheffield Wednesday star Daniel Pudil who went off injured during their playoff final in the first half.
“Daniel is a doubt, as you know he went off injured in the play off final against Beverley, but he has had a week off recovery. We will assess where is his in recovery and monitor him leading up to the game when we return to training next week.” Said Denton.
