TERRY Murphy is returning his focus on the league campaign this weekend after mixed fortunes in the cup competitions in the past week for his Middlewich Town outfit.

Town struggled past Grappenhall Sports after extra time in the Cheshire FA Amateur Cup on Saturday.

Last Tuesday they lost out on penalties to holders Winsford United in the Mid Cheshire Senior Cup.

They face a crunch game on Saturday in the league, taking on second placed Greenalls Padgate St Oswalds, where they hope to extend their lead at the top of the table.

Terry said Saturday’s cup game against the Division Two outfit was tough on his players.

“It was a hard game for us. We played Winsford in the week and that went to extra time as well losing on penalties so it was hard on the lads.

“It was raining hard and the wind was swirling. They went one nil up after a mistake from our centre half. We equalised with a penalty and I then brought on Shaun Came who put us in front but they made it 2-2.

“But Shaun scored again in extra time.

“It was a good performance really and despite the conditions we should have beaten them comfortably. We are creating chances but not scoring.

“We need Mike Brandon to get back on form because he hasn’t been scoring this season.”

On Saturday’s game, Terry said: “It’s a very important game this weekend and we need to perform.”

Town have been drawn against Manchester League Division One outfit Old Altrinchamians in the next round of the Cheshire FA Amateur Cup, with the tie due to be played on November 22, 2pm kick off.