REDDITCH United boss Paul Davis was pleased with his players’ application during the Worcestershire Senior Cup semi-final penalty shoot-out win against Evesham United, which he described as the “toughest test” of pre-season yet.
After a 1-1 draw in normal time, with an unnamed trialist scoring the Reds’ opener, Tom Fishwick scored the decisive penalty to win 6-5 on spot-kicks and book his side a spot in Thursday’s (7.45pm) final against Alvechurch at Evesham United’s Jubilee Stadium.
Davis said: “I am pleased for the supporters, as it is an opportunity for them to see us in a cup final and, hopefully, get our hands on some silverware.
“I thought our tie with Evesham United would be our toughest of pre-season and I wasn’t wrong. With several players missing, all of whom will be involved at the start of the season, I felt we did OK but with plenty to work on.
“The players need time to understand what we are asking of them, both on and off the ball, but, considering Sunday was the first time that particular group had played together, they did OK.
“My staff and I know it will take a couple of weeks for them to gel and be ready for (the season opener against) AFC Rushden & Diamonds.”
Reds supporters can cheer on their team in the final at the Jubilee Stadium, with an adult ticket priced at £6, concessions £3, children £1 and children under five free.
Sunday’s semi-final victory was actually the Reds’ second fixture of the weekend, after an XI were beaten 3-1 by a “well-organised and very talented” Worcester City side on Saturday, according to Davis.
He continued: “Our squad was a mixture of players who have been training with us and trialists and I felt those players gave a good account of themselves for an hour.
“However, we tired quickly, which isn’t surprising considering their lack of match-sharpness.”
Edji Mbunga’s powerful run and pass provided the assist for an unnamed trialist to score, but the visiting Blue & Whites ran out worthy winners.
MEANWHILE, popular Reds centre-back Jim Mutton has departed to join Sutton Coldfield Town.
A United spokesman said: “Redditch United would like to thank Jim for his services and he leaves the TRICO Stadium with the best wishes of everybody associated with the club.”
