Neighbours set for cup decider

The Blues will take on Westfield in the Hastings & District FA Senior Cup final at their opponents’ Parish Field ground today (Saturday). Kick-off is 1.30pm. Sidley’s future hangs in the balance after parent company Sidley Sports & Social Club ceased trading last week.

“It could be the last game and it would be nice to go out with a bit of silverware if that’s the case,” said Sidley manager Lambert, speaking after the 5-1 semi-final victory over Bexhill United on Tuesday evening.

“I first won that cup about 35, 36 years ago playing for Hastings against Hailsham and I normally do alright in it, but Saturday’s going to be a really tough game because Westfield know how to play this pitch and they’re going really well at the minute. But they must’ve looked at us tonight and thought ‘they played some good stuff’.”

Sidley finished 16th in Sussex County Football League Division One, while Westfield came fifth in Division Two after winning five of their last six matches.

Westfield joint manager Duncan Jones said: “For some of those lads it will be their first cup final at senior level and we’re going to want to win it.”

Westfield booked their place in the final back in early March via a 3-0 win away to a Little Common side which clinched promotion from Division Two last weekend.

Kevin Rose is on holiday and Dan Cruikshank is banned, but Gregg Berry should be available for Sidley. Westfield will be without the influential Jethro Warren through suspension. For match updates, follow @SimonNewstead on Twitter.