Saturday, February 25, 2006

FC United's 3,000-voice choir to 'welcome' Holker

Source: North-West Evening Mail

HOLKER Old Boys can expect to step out in front of more than 3,000 boisterous fans when they play FC United of Manchester at Altrincham tomorrow (3pm kick-off).

The game will the second meeting between the two clubs this season, following FC United’s 2-0 win over Holker in December.

That day a large crowd of more than 2,300 created an electric atmosphere inside Craven Park.

Tomorrow promises to be an equally special occasion, with FC United officials predicting a crowd in excess of 3,000.

Old Boys manager Derek Birrell said: “They’re going to have a huge crowd shouting them on, but I’m sure we’ll enjoy it and we’ll give it our best shot.”

Holker sit 13 places below runaway Moore and Co Construction Solicitors League Division Two leaders United.

Birrell said: “Realistically they should beat us. We’re underdogs, their wage bill alone says that.

“But the incentive is there for the lads with the big crowd and hopefully we can come away with something.”

Holker chairman Steve Livingstone said: “Everyone is excited, I think we are a better side now than when last we met.”

Two coachloads of Holker fans will make the big away-day trip out.

The game was switched to Moss Lane from FC United’s rented home at Gigg Lane because of a beer festival taking place there.

Holker (from): R Liddicott, M Daly, G Capstick, C Salton, B Stevens, R Waters, G Brunton, T Bamber, D Swarbrick, P Southward, R Bruce, C Otley, S Hammond, A Higginson.