South Manchester 2nd ease into cup semis

The breakthrough came after the half hour mark, when Louis Rawlings broke through and punished the Lions with a cool, composed side-footed finish. The delight was clear on Rawlings' face, who roared in celebration.

South then pushed on and began getting the ball down in the second half, led by Aaron Searle who continued his good run of form.

At the other end, Oakhill threatened, but nothing was getting passed Nathan Orr, who gave a man-of-the-match performance, keeping Oakhill at bay at every opportunity.

Neil Collins was becoming more and more vocal form the sidelines as South pushed for the all important second goal - which came through Aaron Searle. As the sidelined leaped with joy, Aaron's brother, David, was left confused after losing his glasses on his previous drive down the left.

Dan Linton then made it three to book South's place in the semi-final, topping off a positive, professional performance for Marc Magid's men.

First team captain Michael Stratton was impressed by what he saw. "The boys pulled together and delivered for Marc, who will be delighted to be in a semi-final.

"This season has had it's ups and downs, the downs usually a result of Guy Horne, but as a club we're on the up - and that's good to see.

"We go again next week, and what better than a clash with the noisy neighbours next Sunday."

Maccabi manager Martin Simons said his side were in the top two teams in the North - which caused much amusement in Gatley - let's be honest ... it's Jewish football at the end of the day!"