ROSS Speight hopes history will not repeat when Lostock Gralam attempt to win the Cheshire League’s Division Two Challenge Cup for the first time tonight, Wednesday.

The Grey Lambs’ boss told the Guardian that he has endured enough final heartache previously, both from the touchline and as a player.

“I’ve been involved in cup finals as a coach and a player,” he said.

“Unfortunately I’ve been on the losing side each time so hopefully we will get it right [against Malpas].

“If we can pick up a bit of silverware, then it would be great to savour that winning feeling.”

Division Two promotion hopefuls Malpas provide the opposition at Trafford’s Shawe View home.

They were victors when the teams met at Park Stadium at Christmas.

Speight said: “Malpas were the last team to beat us, so we know it’s going to be tough.

“But we’ll be prepared and are playing well, so they will have to worry about us too.”

Lostock are the division’s in-form team after winning six successive league matches since the turn of the year.

Their only defeat in the past nine games was against higher-ranked Rudheath Social in the Mid-Cheshire District FA Challenge Cup.

Speight hopes the Grey Lambs can take that momentum into their first appearance in this competition’s showpiece.

“Everyone is quite excited,” he added.

“We’re pretty confident. It’s important for us to keep on a roll like we have in the past few weeks.

“Since Christmas we have been more consistent with the sides we’ve picked. Before that injuries and work commitments meant we couldn’t, so it’s no surprise the lads have clicked.

“They have been different class and in this trophy we have shown we are as good as anyone.

“Our only regret is not to have found our stride sooner otherwise we’d be up there challenging Malpas for a promotion place.”

Cheshire League
JA Walton Division Two Challenge Cup final (ko 7.45pm)
Lostock Gralam v Malpas
At Trafford FC
Admission Adults £4, Concessions (NUS/OAP) £2