Skem looking to make the most of cash boosts

Sep 13 2012 Ormskirk Advertiser

ADVANCEMENT on the national knockout cup fronts can play a key part in assisting Skelmersdale United's finances, manager Tommy Lawson said this week.

United booked their place in the second qualifying round of the FA Cup last Saturday by eeking out a 1-0 win over Clitheroe.

The success helped the team secure £3000 and with a trip over the Pennines to Tadcaster Albion next in the competition, victory there would add another £4500 to the total.

Meanwhile, the prospect of adding £2300 to the coffers should they defeat visiting Salford City in the preliminary round of the FA Trophy is another incentive to aid the club in testing times.

"Finances are tough everywhere, so going as far as we can in the cups can make such a difference to clubs such as ours," Lawson said.

"We have brought money into the club with the sales of Shaun Tuck and Chris Almond.

"But sponsorships now do not come easy."

United have certainly been helping their own cause, and although the victory over Clitheroe was hardly comprehensive, it was enough to earn a tie with Yorkshire outfit Tadcaster on September 22.

"To be honest it was all about the result on Saturday against Clitheroe," continued Lawson.

"We'd had a tough game against Ramsbottom in the week and I think that took a lot out of us."

Nevertheless, Lawson was obviously delighted to see his side advance in the competition's next round courtesy of a Josh Hine goal 20 minutes from time.

And next up is Salford City at the West Lancashire College Stadium - and the Skem boss is looking forward to the clash.

"Traditionally it's a tough game against Salford - it's almost like a Liverpool-Manchester thing. Like ourselves, Salford have started the season well."