Central Meet Heyside in Massive Semi Final Clash

Manchester Central will be visitors for the first time in this season’s Manchester Challenge Trophy, when they take the trip to Heyside in a huge Semi-Final game that could define their season.

Central face a side who they have not been strangers to in the past five years, and head into this fixture with an unbeaten record over Heyside in their past five meetings. Another huge game between these two sides, who are familiar with each other in the latter stages of a cup competition.

The last time this was the case was in 2019, when Central edged Heyside 1-0 with a last gap winner to send them through to the Semi-Finals of the Gilgryst Cup. The home side on Saturday will be looking for a much different outcome.

Both sides have struggled for consistency in their respective Divisions, having near enough identical records in their past five games. Both winning twice, losing twice, and drawing once, it seems at this moment there is little to split the two sides.

Ironically, the wins for both sides were in the Manchester Challenge Trophy, with Heyside convincingly beating Stretford Paddock and Maine Road Reserves, whilst Central managed to knock off Avro Reserves and Heywood St James.

In their last fixture, Central managed to pick up their first league point in 42 days at home to Tintwistle Athletic, meanwhile Heyside’s 0-0 draw with Manchester Gregorians saw them pick up their first point since their third game of the season.

Heyside therefore await their first league win since their 2-1 triumph over Old Altrinchamians, and continue to struggle in the Premier Division, particularly failing to find the back of the net having only scored nine times in ten league games.

Fortunately for them but much to Central’s dismay, these woes in front of goal have not been a problem in the Manchester Challenge Trophy. Heyside have notched eight goals in just two cup fixtures and clearly are able to find another gear when they are not playing Premier Division football.

James Horan has been a big boost for Heyside in front of goal, who has netted five times in ten appearances this campaign. This includes scoring in both rounds of the Manchester Challenge Cup so far, as well as two in the Quarter-Final win over Stretford Paddock.

Central meanwhile have like Heyside struggled defensively so far this season, particularly in recent memory, conceding 11 times in their last five fixtures in all competitions. Luckily for Central however, they have been excellent going forward this season.

Ruben Abreu has come alive for Central in front of goal, notching an impressive record of four goals in seven appearances so far. Abreu scored in the Quarter Final for Central, putting them ahead, whilst also netting his penalty in the shootout that was ultimately the difference as Central went on to win.

It will be without question a game to keep your eye on this weekend, as we finally get to see which one of these sides reaches the final of the Manchester Challenge Trophy. Whoever it is, a chance to pick up some silverware will not be one they want to waste.