Senior Cup to be taken seriously as Blues aim to go one better

The clash at Surrey Street represents Matlock’s final hope of cup success this term and boss Mark Atkins says his side will be treating the competition seriously.

Last season they were within touching distance of lifting the trophy in the final at Chesterfield when they led Ilkeston 1-0 but the Robins controversially came out on top with two very late goals.

“In the League Cup we took the opportunity to play lads who hadn’t had many games but we always take the Derbyshire Senior Cup seriously and we’ll hope to field a full strength side against Glossop,” Atkins insisted.

Meanwhile, prior to the trip to Witton last weekend, Matlock brought in 25-year- old goalkeeper Jonathan Hedge on an initial month’s loan from Grimsby Town to cover for regular custodian Jon Kennedy, who began a three-match ban following his red card in the League Cup exit to Mickleover Sports.

Hedge was with Rotherham United as a youngster but then was a key member in the FC Halifax Town side which won successive promotions to reach the Conference North.

A former England C international, Hedge then was with Tamworth before moving to Cambridge United in July 2012. A year later he moved on to Blundell Park.

Atkins added: “I’ve been looking about to see who was available this past two or three weeks and we’re delighted to bring Jonathan here.