HARTLEPOOL United face Rotherham United in the semi finals of the Papa John’s Trophy in one of the biggest games in the club’s recent history. But if the game ends level after 90 minutes, it will go straight to a penalty shootout.
Last time out, Pools came out on top in a shootout beating Torquay United last year in their National League promotion final win to get to the Football League.
They’ve done it as well this season beating Charlton Athletic on penalties in the quarter finals of the competition to reach the last four.
But ahead of a huge game at the Suit Direct Stadium against the current League One leaders, have they been practising their spotkicks?
Manager Graeme Lee revealed: “They do every day. For some reason! They were out there today taking penalties.
“You can practice all you like but it’s handling that pressure. Thankfully against Charlton, the lads were composed and they put them away.
“I don’t know if I will be able to take it if we get to penalties. The lads are focused and ready for the game whatever it brings.”
The players put the finishing touches on their preparations in training yesterday and it’s just been a case of waiting to get out onto the pitch for the squad. The manager is also itching for kick-off.
Lee added: “Once you finish your session the day before, as a player and a manager, you just want to fast forward and want the game to start so you can get in there. It’s going to be a fantastic occasion and we are looking forward to it. We’re here now and we’re ready.
“I imagine Rotherham are excited for it as well so it’s going to be a great challenge but one we are excited by and ready for.”
Bryn Morris will be unavailable for tonight’s game with a knee injury while loanees Joe White and Jake Hull are cup tied having played in the competition for Newcastle United Under-23’s and Rotherham United respectively.
The winner of tonight’s game will face Sutton United in the final on Sunday 3rd April at Wembley.
The fellow League Two side beat Wigan Athletic on penalties last night after a 1-1 draw at the DW Stadium.
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