Tomkinson Hopes League Losses Won't Dent-on Cup Hopes

Central travel to Denton on Saturday, facing the Cheshire Football League Premier Division's 7th-placed side in the Manchester FA County Cup. Ahead of the cup clash, with caught up with Chris Tomkinson.

Chris, it felt like Central were just starting to come good in recent weeks with wins over Chadderton Cott and Manchester Gregorians. However, back-to-back losses against Old Altrinchamians and Avenue shattered any hopes of continuing a positive run of form into this weekend's fixture. With that in mind, how are you feeling ahead of the quarter-final? Do you view it as a tool to spur the side on?

"We are confident. To be honest, until Avenue scored their second on Saturday, I thought that we were th ebetter side. We were in control of the game, and their goalkeeper made three of four really good saves which kept them in the game. Unfortunately, as has been the theme so far this season, we had an awful ten minute spell and completely fell apart. We undid all of our hard work, conceding some dreadful goals which left any hopes of a result dead in the water."

"That said, we will take lots of confidence from the positive parts of the performance, and I think that cup games are always a good distraction when things in the league aren't quite going your way. We know that Denton will pose a very tough test, and I'm sure that our lads will do absolutely everything that they can to try and win the game."

Will you also take confidence from your cup run last year? How big was reaching the final of the County Cup, and did it lift that group's hopes in what was also a difficult period in the season?

"Getting to the final of a competition is always a great occasion, no matter what level you play at. Last season we showed that whilst our league form wasn't the greatest, we could beat anyone in one off games as long as we were at the top of our game, playing like we all know we can. I feel like that is the case this season as well. We have to give one-hundred per cent and be on top form all over the pitch - hopefully we can do that come Saturday."

Finally, Chris, there are just a few players who remain from the side which reached the County Cup final last year. How do you compare the sides, and do you think that this group are capable of going that extra step?

"I think there's just three players remaining from last season's squad, although Junior should be returning just in time for this weekend's fixture too. It is a massively different squad, without a doubt. However, those that we have kept have shown their importance. Dan is essential for us, whilst Ruben Abreu has led by example and Ruben Lawal has shown his versatility."

"I do think that this squad seems more committed than that of last season, and we are a more balanced side now - one that can beat anyone on our day. But, of course, we are obviously going to miss individuals such as Fuad Kasali, who scored goals for fun, really. His goals were essential to our cup run last year, but I think that if we turn up on Saturday and are up for the challenge then hopefully we have a chance. It'll be hard, but then all cup fixtures are."