ByDanny Caro, Danny Caro
Sunday's JC Cyril Anekstein Cup semi-final between Brady Maccabi A and Brixton Old Boys A promises to be a mouth-watering affair.
With the winner taking on Hendon United Sports Club A in the final at Wingate & Finchley on April 22, Brady boss Josh Rosenfeld will be looking to unleash his big guns on their Division One opponents who remain in contention for promotion.
The tie pits together two of the best man-managers in the MSFL with young Rosenfeld going head-to-head with Brixton's John Nitka. Both men have put together talented squads, but with a forward line of Paul Hakim and Jonathan Green, as well as wing wizard Josh Hershman and former cup winner Jonny Ellis, Brady start as the favourites.
Rosenfeld said: "Brixton are an excellent side and have already beaten two excellent Premier Division teams in this competition. We know we can beat anyone on our day if we turn up with the right attitude, but we cannot under-estimate them."
Brady are missing TJ Keterman and Zak Presky, but Rosenfeld is confident he'll have ammunition on the day. "The squad looks much healthier and the only problem these days is picking my strongest XI, but it's a good problem to have."
Brixton are going great guns at the moment, winning their last four matches and scoring 26 goals in the process. It's a game in which they really have nothing to lose.
The Hershkorn brothers – Rob and Alon – have been in prolific form in front of goal in recent weeks, while Rosenfeld will know all about the threat posed by top-scorer Jamie Kent.
James Kaye is also one to watch. Having played in goal behind him for a season, he's always one of the calmest players on the pitch and his tussle with Brady's Lee Platt could hold the key.
● As we move into the business end of the season, JC MSFL chairman David Wolff has written to all clubs to remind them about the importance of the RESPECT campaign. On this note, I was pleased to hear that Oakwood joint-manager Ric Blank has apologised to ref Michael Cohen whom he criticised after the match against Redbridge B.
Referees' Secretary Martin Fox told me: "Overall I believe we are winning the battle, but it's a battle and everyone needs to play a part."
● Gai Assulin has been making friends quickly since joining Brighton on loan from Manchester City, but it appears that he's not so keen on the pebbly beach. He said: "It's not as good as Tel Aviv but I'm going to try and enjoy it."