On the back of a title crushing defeat at the hands of Moston Brook a fortnight ago, Paddock look towards a weekend of possible redemption as they take on title challenging foes De La Salle Reds in the semi-finals of the Rhodes Cup. 

It’s a final grudge match against a side that is odds on to come away with the league title after an imperious season. The side from Salford are one of the 111 remaining unbeaten sides in non league football with an impressive record of 15 games unbeaten which is one of the best records in the country. Paddock will need to be at their absolute best if they want to knock out an in-form side that have scored 16 goals in their last three games, carrying all the momentum going into the semi final.

Howson has been chomping at the bit since the disappointment of the of the Moston Brook defeat, and has since been trying to instil a sense of urgency back into his team. Demanding a reaction, reiterating to his players to not dwell on the disappointment of the league defeat and realise this is the last opportunity to win some silverware this season as well as get one over on their bitter rivals that have already defeated them twice this season. Kieron Molloy still sits on 14 goals, one shy of breaking the all time goal scoring record at the club, and Paddock will need him fit and firing as he has been in red hot form this season. He did have to hobble off at half time against Moston Brook due to a groin issue but the weekend off came as a welcome surprise, giving him the time to regain fitness before the biggest game left this season.

Everything is at stake for Howson and his men; pride, dignity and glory. With a place in the Rhodes Cup Final at stake, it’s a game where nothing but Paddock’s very best will do if they are to come away with the spoils.