MIDDLEWICH Town’s players will not relinquish their JB Parker Challenge Cup crown without a fight, according to manager Dave Parr.

The Witches, victors four times and runners-up twice in the past seven seasons, eased through to the last four at the expense of Linotype at the weekend.

They will face Knutsford or Eagle in the semi finals.

“The lads are determined to hold on to the trophy,” said Parr.

“We could have scored more goals on Saturday had we been a bit more clinical in front of goal, but all that matters in the cup is to reach the next round.”

That message will be repeated this weekend when West Cheshire League outfit Cammell Laird reserves visit in the Cheshire FA Amateur Cup’s last 16.

Parr told the Guardian that the hosts approach the tie in fine form.

He added: “I’m pleased with everybody’s attitude, especially some of the young players like Ben Cope and Danny Garner who have shown great character when I’ve called on them.”

Success in knockout competitions – Town have been paired with Witton in the Mid-Cheshire FA Senior Cup last four – will leave Town playing catch-up in the Cheshire League though.

They are ninth in Division One after 12 matches, nine points and two games behind leading rivals.