Double boost for Trophy tie

COLWYN BAY have had a double fitness boost for Saturday's (Oct 16) home tie against Bradford Park Avenue in the first qualifying round of the FA Trophy (3pm).
Skipper Damien Allen has shaken off a knee injury that forced him out of Tuesday's league win against Burscough early in the second half, and central defender Danny Grannon was also able to train on Thursday after recovering much quicker than expected from a hamstring injury.
"It means we should have everyone available," reported player-manager Dave Challinor.
"Danny being able to train on Thursday was an unexpected bonus for us, although we'll need to check that there has been no reaction," he added.
Hopes of Challinor being able to unveil a new striker, however, have collapsed.
"I did make an offer to a player this week, but after thinking things over he felt the travelling to North Wales was a problem," reported the player-boss.
"I'm disappointed, but we move on and will continue to look at other options."
Meanwhile, he is delighted that the Seagulls have picked up the Evostik Premier Division's Fair Play award for August and September.
Challinor agrees discipline on the field is important and said: "With a small squad we don't want to lose players through suspension. We are not a physical side anyway, which probably helps, and if we can continue as we have for the rest of the season I will be delighted."
Saturday's game provides a break from the pressure of chasing league points, but is important financially to the club.
A good run in the FA Trophy can boost the bank balance, with £2,200 in prizemoney going to the winners of Saturday's tie alone.
Colwyn Bay drew 2-2 at home to Bradford Park Avenue in the league in August in a game they should have won, but the Yorkshire side come to Lanelian Road on the back of three consecutive league victories.
The last thing the Bay players will want, however, is a draw. They are due to have their first full week off since the start of the season and will not want that ruined by having to play a midweek replay at Bradford.