ddRoyals out to rxtend run... Hutchings boost for Moneys

Royals manager Graham Rix is expecting a hard-fought cup tie between the two Wessex premier high-fliers.

‘This is a big game for both clubs,’ said Rix.

‘We are yet to beat them in two meetings so far this season, even though we played well against them.

‘They are a strong, powerful outfit but we will be doing everything we can to progress.

‘An end-of-season cup final is always an attractive proposition to have.’

The Royals are waiting on Joe Noakes, who injured his kneecap against Amesbury Town on Saturday.

Gary Moody could be back in contention after injury.

Michael Birmingham’s Horndean will fancy their chances of causing an upset at Southern League strugglers AFC Totton.

Gosport Borough host National League Eastleigh at the Aerial Direct Stadium.

Wessex League premier division leaders Moneyfields have striker Steve Hutchings back after a six-game suspension for the trip to Brockenhurst in the league.

Manager Dave Carter believes the presence of his captain will boost his team ahead of a tricky encounter.

‘Brockenhurst are going well at the moment and it is not going to be easy,’ said Carter.

‘Having Steve Hutchings back will make a difference.

‘When he is in the side the rest of the players raise their game.

‘He is quality and adds to our fire-power.

‘I have had words with him about keeping his cool because we don’t want to lose him again.

‘He has already missed 12 games for us this season through suspension.

‘It might be a question of us managing his games.’

The visitors could also have Dan Woodward and Conor Bailey back in contention.

Steve Stone is calling on Fareham Town to get their attitude right against Blackfield & Langley at Cams Alders (7.45pm).

‘We know that we are in a relegation dogfight,’ said Stone.

‘Against Sholing, though, we showed what we can do by holding them to a 1-1 draw.

‘We might even have snatched the win.

‘That is the sort of performance we will need again if we are to give ourselves any chance.’