JOHN Bull United will need to show plenty of typical English bulldog spirit if they are to reach the semi-finals of the Metaltec SIL Omnico Cup semi-finals.

By Elvin King

JOHN Bull United will need to show plenty of typical English bulldog spirit if they are to reach the semi-finals of the Metaltec SIL Omnico Cup semi-finals.

The Division Two middle-of-the-table side face Senior Division Crane Sports at King George V Field, Whitton tomorrow (kick-off 2.0pm).

Officially recognised as the oldest team in the league, John Bull has an average age of 32 with just Kieron Stevens and Jamie Steed under the age of 30.

Their record in cup competitions is poor and they have reached this stage without meeting a senior side.

Secretary Leigh Bradbrook is a former manager, and along with chairman Chris Harrall and vice chairman Dave Coonan is a founder member of the club.

The club was formed 18 years ago as Third Ipswich Boys Brigade Old Boys.

“We have tended to freeze when it comes to cup games at first team level.

“Hopefully we won't tomorrow as Crane are a good team.

“As long as we don't get bullied we have a chance of giving them a good game.”

Two seasons ago John Bull, who are one of only three clubs to have won three consecutive SIL league titles, needed just one victory from their final six games to gain promotion to the First Division.

Former Framlingham Town player Ricky Thorpe, who manages the team with his brother Steven, decided to hang up his boots this season.

But after a poor start to the campaign he has started playing again and at the age of 38 is the eldest player in the side.

Crane used to share the YM ground at Rushmere with John Bull so the many of the players in opposition tomorrow know each other.

Old Newton are the other junior side left in the competition, and they visit Westerfield.

The Senior Division top two- Grundisburgh and Haughley meet - with Coplestonians having one up on Melton St Audry's in the remaining game having beaten them 2-0 in the league last week.

In the SIL, the bottom four clubs meet each other. Cockfield play East Bergholt, while Stowmarket Falcons entertain Achilles with points at a premium.