Railway primed for United clash

Railway primed for United clash
By Staff Copy

HARROGATE Railway face one of their biggest games of the season tomorrow when they tackle the might of FC United of Manchester away at Gigg Lane (3pm kick-off).

Their hosts - formed in the aftermath of Malcolm Glazer’s hostile takeover of Manchester United in 2005 - steamrollered through to win the North West Counties League Division One last season.

They have continued their rich vein of form into the 2007/08 UniBond Divison One North campaign and are currently on a two game unbeaten run.

FCUM also have potent striker Rory Patterson at their disposal who replicated his goalscoring heroics from last year by bagging four already this term.

Brockie knows all about Patterson’s reputation but is confident his Rail’ outfit can attack United’s shaky defence.

“When the fixtures first came out this was the one all the boys looked for straight away,” said Brockie.

“We’re all looking forward to playing on a league ground and in-front of a big crowd as they’ve been consistently getting 2000 plus to their home games.

“I’ve been speaking to a few managers in the league and they’ve all told me Patterson is their dangerman.

“But I’ve also been told their defence can be a little shaky so that’s something we’ll have to look at and target.”

Rail’ are desperate for a three-point win to claw their way back up the table.

Brockie’s men are without a victory in two league games but with last weekend’s morale boosting FA Cup triumph the side will be confident heading into the game.

On Saturday Rail’ moved safely through into the next round of the FA Cup following their 4-1 win over Northern League outfit Esh Winning.

Goals from Richard Marshall, Dave Conway and a brace by Danny Forrest sealed the result.
Brockie’s side will face Northern League Division One outfit Chester-le-Street in the next round eight days from now.

“The Chester-le game will be another difficult one but we’re confident. We really want a good run in the competition this season,” added Brockie.

Meanwhile a further page in the history of Harrogate Railway FC was turned this week when Harrogate Railway Ladies open age team ran out for their first home league match.


Last Updated: 06 September 2007 11:33 AM