CARL Macauley has said that a victory in the Mid-Cheshire District FA Senior Cup final tonight would be a gift to Witton Albion’s supporters.

His side take on Winsford United at Wincham Park, kick-off 7.45pm.

And the manager, satisfied already with his players’ work this season after securing seventh place in the Northern Premier League’s top-flight, wants to deliver a trophy to add gloss.

“It would be great to get our hands on some silverware,” he said.

“Our fans have travelled wide and far to back us no matter where we’ve been and in every weather condition possible.

“That lifts the players, and we want to say thanks by winning the final [against Winsford].”

Albion warmed up for a meeting with their neighbours by beating Lancaster City last weekend.

Steve Tames scored both goals in a 2-0 win, increasing his tally for the season in all competitions to 32.

Now he has Blues’ defence in his sights.

Macauley said: “It would have been great for him to sign off with a hat-trick [on Saturday].

“He’s done so well for us, and we’ve nothing but praise for the way he sacrifices himself for the team when we ask him too.

“He’ll put in a shift in a different position, and not moan or sulk – he just wants to help out the guys around him.”

Winsford have played twice since a 3-0 defeat at Bootle in the North West Counties League when Witton were hosting Lancaster.

A 5-1 victory at Irlam on Monday was followed by an entertaining 2-2 draw with Widnes in the second leg of their Macron Cup semi-final 24 hours later.

However their opponents went through 7-2 on aggregate.

That said, Lee Duckworth’s side have demonstrated their pedigree in knockout competitions this season after also reaching the Cheshire FA Senior Cup last-four.

The also eliminated holders 1874 Northwich to secure a spot in tonight’s showpiece.

Macauley said: “It was important for us to go into this game on the back of a couple of wins.

“And I’m happy as well that we kept clean-sheets in both of those games.”