Senior Cup holders Mistley must overcome high-quality opposition in East Anglian Premier League outfit Maldon if they are to retain their treasured silverware.

The Marshall Hatchick Two Counties division one side entertain Maldon in the semi-final on Sunday at New Road (2pm), and Mistley skipper Paul Garwood is hoping their record against them holds them in good stead.

He said: "We are all really looking forward to the game on Sunday.

"We have a pretty good record against Maldon over the last few years. But they have a number of quality players and I wouldn't like to pick anybody out in particular.

"They've added a couple of good overseas players, but it is going to be a challenge that we are all looking forward to and hopefully we will get through to the final."

Having beaten Two Counties division two opposition Brightlingsea and Frinton on their way to the last four, Garwood is well aware that his outfit will need to be firing on all cylinders.

He said: "I know Maldon have had a steady season and are in the lower half of their table, but there is a huge gulf between the two divisions and we must raise our standards to compete."

Published Friday July 23, 2004

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