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Risca United are just one win away from returning to the JD Cymru South.
They travel to Penydarren to face Baglan Dragons FC on Friday May 26 in a winner takes all tie after finishing runners up in the Ardal South East this season.
Their opponents, who finished runners up in the Ardal South West, are unbeaten since February and will come into the game full of confidence.
Risca United manager Simon Berry told Caerphilly Observer how his side have prepared for the game: “We didn’t know who it was going to be until late so it has been difficult to prepare against them. They’re on a brilliant run and they’re going to be tough to beat.
“We’re confident in our game, the boys trained twice this week and I think the break has done us a favour. We looked a little leggy against Trethomas in our last match and it’s given our players a chance to recover.”
Unfortunately for the Cuckoos, they will be without forward Zack Maher who picked up a knee injury against Trethomas Bluebirds and hasn’t recovered in time.
Asked if Risca had concerns over the game being on a Friday night, Berry said: “It actually suits us if anything. We’ve played a lot of Friday night games this season and the boys are used to it.
“The guys are certainly happy too because the players tour is booked for Saturday, hopefully it’ll be a celebration.”
If Risca do want to leave with the win and gain promotion, they’re going to have to shut down Dragons danger man Jordan Evans, warns Berry.
Evans finished the season with 24 goals and six in his last five games. Berry added that he looked “very impressive” and that they’ll have to manage him when possible.
Risca aren’t without threats of their own, Leon Thomas finished the season with 13 goals and Jake Morris topped the league for assists with 13.
On the prospect of promotion, Berry said: “We had a brilliant season and probably should have won the league. There were a few too many draws after Christmas and this is our chance to correct things.
“I always fancy us on 3G and the boys are excited for the chance. It should be a good game.”
The game kicks off at 7.45pm on the Bont Playing Fields, Penydarren, Methyr Tydfil.
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