Martyr for the cause

The FA Carslberg Sunday Cup
The Final
Sunday 26 April 2009
2pm, Anfield, Liverpool FC
Winning club will receive £2000, losing club will receive £1000

When Neil McNulty leads out Oyster Martyrs at Anfield this Sunday, he is hoping it can be the start of a dream end to his playing career with the club.

The defender has been with the Croxteth-based team for over 16 years and is planning to hang up his boots at the end of the season.

First up though, he is hoping for Sunday Cup success when Oyster take on Nottingham outfit Scots Grey at Anfield in their home city of Liverpool.

“This is going to be my last season, so on a personal note for us to get to The FA Sunday Cup Final is a great honour,” said McNulty ahead of the game.

“To walk out at Anfield will be unbelievable. I’m an Evertonian, as are most of the lads, but to lead the team out there in my last season is fantastic and if we can get a win, it would set us up for a perfect season.”

The Martyrs are also hoping that their most famous fan will be in the stands to support them. England and Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, one of Croxteth's most renowned sons, has kept a keen interest in the team’s fortunes, particularly given that his brother Graham and cousin Thomas are regulars in the team and his uncle Richie Rooney is the manager.

“We’re grateful of anyone’s support, but someone as high profile as Wayne is obviously great for us,” added McNulty.

“He’s been down to watch a few games over the years. Obviously he has a busy schedule, but it’ll great if he can be there and it’s a shame he can’t put on his boots for us!”