HARROGATE Railway's bid to make it through to their second cup final of the season faltered against Sheffield last night.

Having already won the Northern Counties East League President's Cup, Railway seemed on course for a shot at the League Cup.

But last night's semi-final replay didn't quite go to plan, with Sheffield earning their spot in the final with a 3-1 win.

Things had started so well for Rail, with Kevin Smith netting after just two minutes.

Unfortunately John Pickess struck a penalty to level the scores after 16 minutes, before adding a second before the break.

The lively Sheffield front-man then wrapped up his hat-trick in the second half to end Rail's dreams.

Rail will have to put this disappointment to one side tomorrow as Marshall attempts to inspire his weary troops for their NCEL premier division tie against Liversedge at Station View.

Marshall is definitely without Jimmy Gore, Mark Watkinson and Mattie Flynn, and with his squad from last night starting to feel the effects of a hectic run-in, he could well turned to some of the club's fringe players to fly the flag.

Pickering Town will look to wrap up their immediate top-flight future with a win at home against Arnold Town.

Boss Steve Brown set his charges a target of at least two wins from their final eight games to make sure, and having managed a draw and a victory since then, the Pikes have edged ever closer to safety.

And with the victory coming in midweek over a strong Brigg Town outfit, Brown is set to stick to his winning formula. That means former York City striker Alex Mathie could make his second appearance from the bench since being released by the Minstermen.

Selby Town, who dropped below Pickering in the table in midweek, will attempt to bounce back from their 3-1 defeat at champions-elect Bridlington when they entertain Thackley.

The club have lost the services of Ryan Carmody to Belper, but Bob Lyon has added Simon Caine from Tadcaster Albion to his squad.

In division one, Wayne Day's Tadcaster Albion troops travel to Maltby Main as they look to wrap up their disappointing campaign with a good run.

Steve Batley, Paul James and Ben Pollard are all back in contention for the Park-based side.

Harrogate Town will have a trio of stars back available for their trip to Frickley in the UniBond League premier division.

Marc Smith, Stuart Elliott and Lee Cowling are all set to come back into the squad after missing the 3-1 victory over Blyth Spartans.

Defender Mick McNaughton, who scored as a make-shift striker against Blyth, is likely to return to his more natural position.

Updated: 10:09 Friday, April 11, 2003