JIMMY MARTIN believes Huddersfield has some of the best amateur footballers in Yorkshire – and says tonight’s Charity Cup match at the Welfare Ground will prove it.
The Lepton Highlanders manager has put together a District League XI to take on Northern Counties East League side AFC Emley (7.45) in a match in memory of leukaemia campaigner Adrian Sudbury, the late Examiner journalist.
And Martin says his side, made up of players from defending league champions Lepton, Britannia Sports, Newsome WMC, Heywood Irish Centre and Hepworth United, are up for the challenge.
“It’s going to be tough, because AFC Emley are doing well in their league and have the advantage of having played together as a side for some time,” said Martin.
“But I think we have some excellent players in the District League, many of whom could play at a higher level if they wished, and this is their chance to show what they’re about.
“It’s not often the District League puts out a representative side – about 20 years ago was the last time, I’m told – so it’s a big thing to be involved for both the players and myself.
“It’s for a fantastic cause, and that’s the main thing, but there’s a trophy to be won so we’ll be taking the game seriously, don’t worry about that!”
The District League will wear kit loaned by Town, and club ambassador Andy Booth will be present.
Every member club has donated £10 and the District League have topped up that fund to £500.
Now Martin and AFC Emley boss Ian Banks, the former Town midfielder, hope local football fans will turn out in force to further boost the coffers of leukaemia research.
