Poppies set to go strong for clash at Corinthians

Action from Kettering Town's 2-1 defeat at Hungerford Town on Saturday. Pictures by Peter Short

The Poppies go into the clash with the ChromaSport & Trophies United Counties League Premier Division side on the back of two successive away defeats that have hit their chances of challenging for the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division play-off places, the latest of which was a 2-1 loss at 10-man Hungerford Town on Saturday.

Law has admitted the potential of a final against AFC Rushden & Diamonds, who face Brackley Town in the other last-four match this evening, is “tempting” for the Poppies.

But he has described the tie at Sergeants Lawn as “tricky” and said: “The potential of facing one of our most local rivals (AFC Diamonds) is tempting.

Action from Kettering Town's 2-1 defeat at Hungerford Town on Saturday

“But we have to overcome a tricky hurdle in the form of Rothwell Corinthians who will definitely be up for the game.

“We have had a lack of matches recently so we need the players out on the pitch more than anything at the moment.

“We will have a look at what personnel we have available and then we will pick the strongest team possible.”

Corinthians boss Shaun Sparrow believes there’s no pressure on his players for what he says is “a great night” for his club.

They were kicking their heels again at the weekend as their home clash with Harborough Town was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch,

But Sparrow revealed he is “hopeful” tonight’s game will go ahead and he is urging his players to savour the occasion.

“We are very hopeful the game will be on and we will be doing all we can to make sure it does,” the Corinthians manager said.

“The club want it on, I want it on and the players want it on. It is a great night for us and it brings with it no pressure.

“We are hopeful for a good turnout and this is why you play football. We want to remind people that our club is here.

“When all’s said and done, there is very little pressure on our boys and they get the chance to go up against players from two levels higher.

“I am sure there will be a changes to their side but it is Kettering Town. Our players should be looking forward to it.

“I have played in some big games before and you don’t forget them. I have forgotten about plenty of matches but never ones like this.”