The National League Cup Semi-Finals Are Just Hours Away

Three of our sides have made in through to the final four as they compete for a place in history - trying to become the new competition’s first ever winners.

We are sure to have one National League club in the final as Braintree Town host Sutton United.

Iron manager Steve Pitt is desperate for the chance to get his hands on a trophy three months after taking over.

“The fact we’re in a semi-final in my 24th game at the club is testament to the players and their application,” he said ahead of the match.

Steve Morison is equally as excited at the prospect but there’s been a blow in the build up - Jack Taylor will miss the rest of the season after picking up an injury at Boston United.

Altrincham have their work cut out to reach the final and welcome Leeds United tonight.

The Championship club’s young stars overcame Group A winners Aldershot to advance into the semi-finals but manager Phil Parkinson is determined to put his team’s iffy league form to one side and give their season a big boost.

The National League Cup was formed this season by the Premier League and the National League. It features the first teams of National League clubs and the PL2 sides of clubs from the Premier League and EFL Championship.

The competition is designed to give young players from Premier League and EFL clubs additional opportunities to test themselves against senior opposition, with the aim of further aiding elite player development.

The cup, which began in October, also offers an opportunity for National League clubs to play regular matches against the best Under-21 teams in England at their own stadiums, with this additional exposure intended to improve the playing and spectating experience, as well as the clubs’ growth and sustainability.

National League Cup semi-final fixtures:
Altrincham v Leeds United
Braintree Town v Sutton United