Lee Morris heading Shaw Lane into the lead in the first round tie with Runcorn Linnets
Craig Elliott is urging the people of Barnsley to come out and support Shaw Lane Aquaforce’s bid to reach the FA Vase fourth round.
Aquaforce need a big crowd behind them for the long-awaited Vase third round clash with Northern League giants Shildon tomorrow night at Oakwell – the home of Barnsley FC.
The match has been besieged by crisis and has been called off twice because of an unfit Shaw Lane pitch which has led to Oakwell hosting the game.
Elliott expects lots of neutrals to be a Oakwell for the huge tie and said: “It’s a big game for a number of reasons – the venue, the opposition and the competition.
“It is an amazing opportunity (for the players to play at Oakwell) and the chairman (Craig Wood) has done brilliantly in getting Oakwell for the game.
“It should generate a lot of interest in the game and the club from Barnsley season ticket holders and fans.
“They can come and see what they think of us. It should be a great night.
“The message is to come out and support us, but it is also a great opportunity for people to watch Shildon, who are meant one of the best sides in the country at this level.”
Shildon are ninth in the Northern League Division One table, but have an excellent season so far having reached the FA Cup first round proper.
Aquaforce beat the Northern League leaders West Auckland in the last round, but Elliott says his men are the underdogs tomorrow.
“It is going to be a massive ask as we are playing a side that has massive intentions of getting to Wembley,” he said.
“I’ve had them watched and they are probably going to be the best side we are going to play this season – that’s from the feedback I have got.
“I’m looking forward to the test.
“We have to take heart from beating West Auckland in the last round and we have to remember that we are a good side ourselves.
“I think it will be a great game.”
The West Stand is open at Oakwell tomorrow. Admission is £5 for adults, £3 for students and concessions and £1 for children,
The Grove Street car park is open for supporters.