Marine will look to continue their FA Cup journey as they take on Halifax Town on Saturday.

The Crosby side are hoping to reach the first-round proper of the competition for the first time in three years, but will face a tough task away at the National League side.

The Mariners will be eager to replicate their FA Cup run of 20/21, where they famously faced Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham in the third round.

Marine are on a fine run of form, unbeaten in their last 11 games in all competitions, including a win against league leaders Radcliffe to become the only side to take points off the Manchester team all season.

They also have experience facing a team higher in the football pyramid in the FA Cup, defeating National League North side Spennymoor Town in the Second Qualifying Round.

The Halifax clash will be a step up, however, with the Yorkshire outfit currently two divisions above Marine. They’ve had a decent start to the season, currently sitting just one place outside the play-off spots in 8th but have only won two of their last six games.

If Marine are to pull off a big win at the weekend, they will need their top players to step up for them and here are three who could make a difference.

  1. Finlay Sinclair-Smith

The 23-year-old has been in flying form this season for the Mariners, with nine goals already, he is the club’s top scorer so far. A technically wonderful footballer, the tricky forward has a lightning turn of pace and an obvious eye for goal. The reigning NPL Young Player of the Season has been a key piece for his side and if he plays a big role on Saturday, Marine will be in with a chance.

  1. Sol Solomon

The other Marine forward, who will be key for them at the weekend is Jersey native Sol Solomon. He has scored eight goals this campaign, with half of those coming in the FA Cup. The 22-year-old was prolific for the Mariners last year and has carried that form into the current season. He combines well with the aforementioned Sinclair-Smith, with the two forming a formidable partnership and are a handful for most defences they face.

 

  1. Josh Wardle

The Marine skipper is the heartbeat of Neil Young’s side and has been a key part of their early season form. A classy defender, Wardle has been excellent this campaign, his partnership at the back with Chris Doyle has seen Marine keep six clean sheets in the last 10 games. However, he missed last weekend’s FA Trophy clash with Marske, and if his side are to beat Halifax, they will be hopeful of their captain’s return.

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