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Halesowen Town are bracing themselves for their biggest game in over 20 years when they welcome Chippenham Town to the Grove on Tuesday evening (7.45pm kick-off) in the BGB Premier Division play-off semi-final.

The Yeltz are now only two games away from promotion to Blue Square North and manager Morell Maison believes this prize makes Tuesday's game as big if not bigger than all three of their past FA Vase finals.

Maison said: "Tuesday's game is a massive occasion for the club and the town.

"It's got be one of the biggest games in the club's recent history and in many ways bigger than the FA Vase finals because promotion to the Conference North would have such a positive impact on the long term future of this football club.

"It's a massive prize for the club and you've only got look at the possible derby clashes we will have."

There has been nothing to split the Yeltz and Chippenham in their two league meetings this season with both ending in a draw and the boss believes Tuesday's clash will be equally as tight.

He said: "It's gong to be a real cagey affair between two evenly matched sides.

"The two previous meetings this season have shown it's hard to split us and even on the terraces our attendances are near enough the same.

"It's going to be a case of who plays best on the night, but I think the experience we have will be key and will see us pull through."

The club will be providing extra car parking facilities for the game in anticipation of a bumper crowd.

General manager, Colin Brookes is urging people to turn their back on the Champions League semi-final between Manchester United and Barcelona and instead come out support their town.

He said: "This will be a huge night for the club and as the manager and the players have said recently the supporters are key.

"The crowd have been absolutely fantastic and I urge all those Yeltz fans who haven't been down for a while as well as football fans in general to come to the Grove and cheer the team on in what could be a real memorable night.

"I know the Manchester United game is on but you can watch the highlights when you get back."

The Yeltz were pushed out of the running for automatic promotion following last weekend's 1-1 draw at home to Clevedon Town.

Before Tuesday, Halesowen will bring the regular season to a close when they travel to Magnotsfield United on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

Maison has stated he will be putting out a near full strength side for the game in preparation for Tuesday although Dean Brennan , Eldon Maquemba and Ikechi Anya may be rested after picking up minor knocks.

10:21am Thursday 24th April 2008

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