Magpies focus on Rebels clash (Story posted 9.45pm 14.03.02)

MAIDENHEAD United go into Tuesday's Berks & Bucks Cup semi-final clash with Slough knowing if they lose their season will effectively be over.
With little but pride to play for in the Ryman Premier Division, United will be going all out to reach their fourth final in five years.
Certainly this is the wish of Magpies chairman Roger Coombs.
He said: “From our point of view this is the most important game left of the season. There is a cup final at the end of it.
It’s going to be a difficult one. We’re not in the best of form while they’re on a good run.”
He added: “It’s difficult for them to get promotion now so maybe like us they will treat this as a big game.”
But this clash is not just about potential silverware, it continues the Magpies v Rebels rivalry that has raged for years. Until four years ago United have not had much to shout about,but the clubs have been going in separate directions since, with Slough now a Division 1 outfit.
Coombs is all too aware of the situation.
He said: “Added to the fact that this is a cup tie, there is of course the little matter of the local rivalry between the clubs.
“I’m not sure that some of our newer players and London based ones will appreciate this. But I’m sure Obi and Rakey and the rest will tell them.
“It’s the first time for a long time that we will go into the game as favourites because we are in a higher division than them.
Unfortunately that probably works against us. We play well when we’re the underdogs.”
Coombs added: It’s a pressure game and I hope we just play well. We’ve had a good run in this competition for the last few years and the final is a nice way to end the season.”
Manager Alan Devonshire is also looking forward to the big match and hinted that former Rebel Barry Rake would start the game in midfield.
Rake caused a stir when he defected to Slough at the beginning of the season and his presence is bound to add an extra edge to an already tension-filled game.
Devonshire said: “It’s a big, big game.
“They are going very well in Division 1 and have signed a lot of new players.
“I’m really looking forward to it.”
The match – sponsored by the Maidenhead Advertiser – is at York Road, kick-off 7.45pm.
It all adds up to a big week for United, as tomorrow (Saturday) they welcome league leaders Canvey Island to York Road.
Devonshire said: “It’s a good game for us. We have nothing to lose and they are going for the league.
“It’s just the kind of game we’re in this league for.”
Fans are being asked to bring along their cash, as the club is planning to make a collection for Michael Gorman, who had his leg broken in last week’s game at Gravesend.
His playing career still hangs in the balance, but he has already lost his job due to the injury.