Skem’s FA Trophy tie with Luton Town will bring a much welcomed cash boost

Dec 27 2012 Ormskirk Advertiser

SKELMERSDALE UNITED'S' plum FA Trophy tie at Luton Town has the potential to put the club on a secure financial footing for next season.

Skem will share half of the gate receipts when the sides meet in the last 16 of Trophy on January 16.

Luton average around 6,000 spectators for Conference matches this season and though the average has dropped for some cup ties, United will hope a big crowd turn up to Kenilworth Road in the New Year.

Chairman Paul Griffiths believes that if the game attracts a usual sized attendance then the cash windfall will mean Skem are already sorted for next season.

Griffiths has likened the potential funds to securing a moderate sponsorship deal for the club.

Although Skem will start the game as significant underdogs, Griffiths says the prize fund of £7,000 on offer for the winners would also mean a great deal to the Evo-Stik First Division North club; United's five wins in the competition so far this season have already pocketed them £20,800.

"It is a fantastic boost and should Luton achieve an average gate that day then it would be the equivalent of a minor sponsorship deal for us," said Griffiths.

"We lost our sponsorship from Scott Rees for this season so the money from the Luton game will be like getting that back.

"Should we win the game, then there is another £7,000 on offer from the FA for us.

"It secures next season for us. The money from Luton, put alongside existing deals, sets us up for next season which is a massive boost for us.

"Luton are still set up as a league club but we will give it a go and our squad is capable of beating anyone in the Trophy."

United welcome Ramsbottom United to the West Lancashire College on Saturday looking to maintain their promotion push.

"We have got plans in place should we get promoted," confirmed Griffiths.