It is a case of unfinished business for Raiders who were edged out in the final by three-time winners Hendon United 12 months ago. Avi Korman’s goal denied them a treble and manager Daniel Shafron is determined to finish his first season in charge with some silverware.
“It is a fantastic occasion for the club,” said Shafron ahead of the match at the West Didsbury and Chorlton AFC.
“To reach our second successive Morrison final is a huge achievement and something all the boys are relishing.
“Our cup run has given us a positive diversion away from the league and there is plenty of enthusiasm and confidence across the squad.”
Raiders concluded their MGBSFL Premier Division campaign with a 4-2 defeat against title-chasing Redbridge Jewish Care. But Shafron is confident his players will produce a big performance when it matters most.
He said: “We have had a challenging run in this competition and it’s now our responsibility to ensure all our hard work is rewarded.
“South Manchester have also had some impressive wins and we are looking forward to meeting them.”
Justin Spiro, Ben Ellis and Adam Gold have been ruled out of the match through injury, while David Nezri is also unavailable. And there are major concerns over the fitness of top-scorer Liron Mannie, who was forced off with a hamstring injury last weekend.
Shafron commented: “The important thing for me is that we play to the levels we are capable of. We have an array of talent in our group with great attitude and spirit.
“A majority of the squad have plenty of experience playing in cup finals and games of this magnitude and we will look to use this to our advantage.”
South Manchester have been something of a surprise package this season. Under managers Neil Collins and Paul Kirkham, they have built solid foundations and were worthy winners against the Lions under-21’s at Rowley Lane in the last round.
Collins believes that an indifferent league campaign will count for little when the first whistle blows this weekend.
Given their ongoing success and ability to attract some of the top Jewish talent in London, Raiders start as favourites, but Collins believes the tag of underdogs will “suit” his team.
Victories over Redbridge, Lions and the Manchester Jewish Soccer League XI show South Manchester are not a team to be under-estimated. Indeed they thrive under pressure.
Collins said: “Everyone constantly talks about this team in London, or that team in London, and the Manchester teams are merely seen as a formality.
“However Manchester Maccabi won the County Cup last year and we are going for silverware this year, so I think Manchester Jewish football is doing well and that is something to be proud of.
“For us, it’s about enjoying the day; that goes for the managers, the players and those who aren’t playing, who will no doubt play a huge role is spurring the players on.”
Venue: West Didsbury and Chorlton AFC, Brookburn Road, Manchester, M21 8FE, Kick-off: 3pm
Referee: Jason Mcauley
JC star man: Jonny Kay (Raiders)
DC Prediction: South Manchester 1 Raiders 2
