Cambridgeshire County League v Isle of Man League
National League System Cup
The Final
3.00pm, Sunday 7 May, 2006
Cambridge United FC

The Isle of Man have already made history in this year's National League Systems Cup by being the first offshore team to reach an FA Final at any level - but now they want to win the trophy.

Kevin Manning's side line-up against Cambridgeshire at the Abbey Stadium on Sunday, knowing a win would guarantee them a place in competition history as well as a spot in the UEFA Regions Cup, representing England.

"We are delighted to be in The Final and be a step nearer to wearing the England shirt in Europe. This is a fantastic opportunity for the players," said Manning, who expects a stern examination from their opponents.

"There is a massive incentive at stake for both Cambridge and the Isle of Man to be the victors on the day, and I am sure I will get nothing less than 100 per cent from my players and a competitive performance from our hosts."

Manning played most of his football in the North West of England with Ashton Town, Bootle and Ford Motors. He also played in both The FA Cup and the Welsh equivalent, where he came up against Wrexham whilst in the Blanefastiniog side.

The highlight of his playing career came at Anfield where, as a youth, he helped Kirkdale pick up the Merseyside Youth Cup. As a centre-half, he faced some tough opponents, but no more so than Tony Hateley whom Manning had to man mark in an FA Cup game.

He described Sunday's Final as a 'journey into the unknown', but remained positive of an Isle of Man victory.

"We are mindful of Cambridge’s pedigree and reputation. However, there have been some giant performances from the squad with each player prepared to do that extra bit to help his team mates out," he added.

Manning's opposite number, Andy Ross, has been plying his trade in the Cambridgeshire Leagues for many years, managing a number of clubs including Great Shelford, Cherry Hinton and Histon Reserves and winning a number of trophies along the way.

A former player in the Cambridgeshire League, Ross played for many years between the sticks for his local club, Cherry Hinton.

He paid tribute to everyone who has played a part in the team’s success so far: "I would like to thank my players and staff for their hard work and commitment in reaching this Final this season. Also the club managers for releasing them and encouraging them to take part in this competition."

He also praised their opponents and looked ahead to an attractive match. "Congratulations to the Isle of Man team for reaching this Final and I hope we can both put on a good show for non-league football."