The pressure is off for Selsey's cup final

Blues boss Adam Hinshelwood is looking to install his own mentality on his players as they prepare for the big match at Lancing.

“I said from day one I’m a bad loser – I don’t think I’ve ever played a ‘friendly’ game in my life, but getting that mentality through to the players is quite difficult,” he said.

“But I’ve told them how we’re massive underdogs for the match and that the pressure is off. We can let the lads enjoy it.”

Hinshelwood will be looking for a response from his players after they lost 2-1 at home to East Grinstead Town on Saturday.

He felt his side were good value for money on the day but missed decent chances.

“It was quite annoying as East Grinstead seemed to have two chances and put them away. We had more chances but just lacked that final touch. It hurt us a lot – we thought we had done enough to win the game.”

Top goalscorer Max Thoms is in contention to start the final, looking to add to the 13 goals he has scored this season. And the boss knows how important he will be.

He said: “Max has been like a new player this year – he has really improved. I’m not sure if it is our coaching ability that has upped his game or if it is his own practice.

“He’s done really well this season but I’m looking for as much from the rest.”

Kieron Urquart, Ryan Cox and Jake Lafferty are all cup-tied for the final and Rob Wimble is out with a knee injury.

DAN BRETT