Magpies in prime form for cup final (Story posted 10.30am Thursday, May 1)

MAIDENHEAD United's long season comes to an exciting climax on Monday, when they take on Chesham in the Berks & Bucks Cup final at Wycombe Wanderers’ Adams Park, kick-off 3pm.
And, while the Bucks outfit are setting themselves up as the red-hot favourites, United manager Alan Devonshire seems happy to play the role of underdog.
He said: "They are the favourites, so they are expected to win.
"We haven't even scored a goal against them this year."
However, the Magpies have clearly turned a corner in recent weeks, with famous victories over Braintree Town and Grays Athletic, both of whom finished above Chesham in the league this season.
But this fact did not dissuaded the Generals' chairman from going on the record and predicting a convincing win on Monday.
Tony O'Driscoll even went as far as saying the Wycombe pitch would suit his side better, as they are more of a footballing side.
If his remarks were designed to raise the stakes ahead of the big match, he probably succeeded.
Responding to the comments, Devonshire had a decidedly steely ring in his voice, saying: "I don't want to say too much about it. They seem to have done all the talking for me.
"That suits us fine."
For a full preview of the Berks & Bucks Senior Cup Final turn to page 71 of the Maidenhead Advertiser, May 3 edition.
But, whatever the result on Monday, United already have something to celebrate, having survived another year in the top flight, while confirming their credentials as a genuine Premier outfit.
A excellent run of results before Christmas saw the Magpies soaring into the top half of the table, a performance Devonshire hopes to emulate next season.
He said: “It’s all coming together now, which is a bit of a boost for next season – and the cup final.
“I’ve been experimenting for the last 10 games, trying to find the best way forward, and I think we have found a new way of playing.
“There’s still a long way to go, but we have worked hard on the basics and the players seem to have picked up the new system better and faster than I’d thought.
“It’s gone very well.”
Which all bodes well for next season, but what lessons have been learned in 2001/2002?
Devonshire said: “It’s been a funny old season.
“We haven’t set the world alight, but at times we have played some good stuff.
“We finished in the same place, but with three points more. I’m quite happy with the way it’s gone.
“We’ve also had some bad injuries but we have still managed, and that’s very pleasing.”
However, the former West Ham and England star has never been one to rest on his laurels, adding: “It’s going to be a hard season next year and we need a stronger squad.
“I’m looking for more quality and younger players.
“Some of the current squad have been with me a long time and perhaps I can’t take them any further.
“I should have some announcements to make on Saturday night.”
Could this be the death knell for the likes of Barry Rake, Brian Connor and Steve Croxford? Watch this space.