WAYNE DAVIS wants Fairfield Villa to be inspired by the prospect of booking a first-ever appearance at a Football League ground as they seek a second cup final of the season tomorrow (Saturday).
Fairfield entertain Boldmere Sports & Social Falcons in the semi-finals of the Les James Challenge Cup – the Midland League’s cup for Division Two and Three clubs – with the winners going into the final at Walsall’s Bescot Stadium.
Davis’ side, who have won four in a row, have already sealed a place in the Worcestershire Junior Cup final and will be favourites against Boldmere, who play a league below. But the Falcons dumped higher league Coton Green out of the last-eight and that will be a warning against any complacency.
“There’s a big incentive – to get the chance to play at the Bescot, to play on a League club’s ground” said Davis. “It’s a big opportunity and when this sort of opportunity comes along you have to grab it.
“We certainly won’t take anything for granted. We won’t take Boldmere lightly; they beat Coton Green away and that’s an impressive result.
“But we will go into the game with a lot of confidence. We’ve picked up since Christmas. We’re flying at the moment but the last few weeks won’t matter on Saturday. We’ve got to perform.”
Fairfield warmed up in style last week as they secured a 3-0 win at home to top-five side Northfield Town in the Midland League Division Two.
Connor Collins, marking his 100th appearance, netted twice and Alex Dugmore was also on target.
Davis made several changes to his side last weekend and he admits the performances of those who were drafted into the XI have left him with plenty of options. Youngster Jack James, a former Stourbridge youth player, was one such candidate after his display in centre midfield.
Lewis Phillips, who was not risked last weekend due to a slight groin strain, will come into contention to face Boldmere.
“I’ve got some tough decisions to make,” said Davis. “But I would have that than have just being down to 12 or 13 fit players. We had that situation earlier in the season
“Getting players back fit has made the difference in recent weeks.”
