FA VASE PREVIEW Spotlight on Millbrook and Falmouth
- Details
- Created on Friday, 04 December 2020 17:42
- Last Updated on Saturday, 05 December 2020 11:44
- Published on Friday, 04 December 2020 17:42
- Written by KEVIN MARRIOTT Cornwall football's touchline ace
Millbrook will emerge from lockdown two as the only team in the South West Peninsula League yet to lose a match.
Ten wins from 11 games lifted them to the top of Premier East - but their title challenge is being put on hold as they pursue more success in the FA Vase.
Today’s first round proper tie at home to Sherborne Town of the Western League first division is the furthest the Brook have progressed in the prestigious national competition.
Today’s winners will be at home to Wessex League side Bashley from New Milton in Hampshire next Saturday.
Millbrook manager Mackenzie Brown said: “We are really looking forward to the game this weekend.
“I think when something gets taken away from you like football has in the past month it makes you appreciate it much more, not just the competitive edge that we all crave but the social side of things as well.
“So we would be looking forward to playing against an under 9s team this weekend let alone such a big game in the FA Vase, and no doubt Sherborne will be exactly the same so it will be a really tough test.
“I’m pleased we are going back into it with no points up for grabs, but it’s full focus on the Vase for us.”
Brown, a schoolteacher, added: “Lockdown two has been quite normal for me, as schools have remained open, so I’ve been at work as normal.
“And this time of year is always a semi lockdown anyway I suppose because of the weather and light.
“The players stayed in shape fitness wise so should be ready for action come Saturday!”
* Unfortunately today's Falmouth Town versus Bishop's Cleeve tie has been washed off - new date next Saturday but preview still stands...
Falmouth Town are already through to the second round but face a tough tie against Hellenic League premier division side Bishop’s Cleeve at Bickland Park.
The Cheltenham-based visitors sit fourth in the table after eight games and have made a particularly strong start to their away fixtures, winning four out of five.
Their final game before lockdown was the FA Vase first round tie, beating Western League premier division Shepton Mallet 6-3.
Falmouth have also made an impressive start to the season and they are particularly strong at home where they are roared on by a fanatical group of supporters who make the atmosphere at Bickland pretty special.
Andrew Westgarth’s side have won five of their six home league games and have scored 28 goals along the way. So they will be pleased for home advantage and the fact that the tie has to be settled on the day.
Westgarth said: “It’s great to finally get some football back, fingers crossed mother nature behaves.
“This is a really tough game to come back to and will really highlight who has and who hasn't looked after themselves in the lockdown. “The lockdown itself was a challenge as there is only so much you can get out of road running and front room fitness sessions.
“The only comfort is both teams are in the same position.
“Form will go out the window and it will be down to who wants it the most on the day. We will have unreal support as always and can't wait to get going.”
The FA Vase third round draw is due to take place on Monday.
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