Darlaston Town and Lichfield City will tomorrow afternoon play the biggest game in either club’s history, the winners will be promoted into Step 4 of the NLS into, more than likely, one of two Divisions of the Northern Premier League (subject to ratification from the FA).

Irrespective of the result of tomorrow’s game, both clubs have had outstanding seasons and their successes should not be judged on the result.

However, one club will leave the Trade Tyre Community Stadium in a euphoric mood, whilst the other will have to stay positive and humble and look forward to another season in the Midland Football League Premier Division where they will have to do it all again.

Darlaston’s 2023/24 season will come to a close tomorrow and what an outstanding season of many memories that will be remembered by the supporters and players for many years. Particular highlights – The Emirates FA Cup games against Sporting Khalsa and wins over West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers in The Birmingham Senior Cup.

Tomorrow is Lichfield’s penultimate game of the season after winning last night’s JW Hunt Cup Semi-Final after penalties following a 1-1 draw in normal time with Wolverhampton Casuals. Lichfield City now have the chance to retain the JW Hunt Cup, where they will play the winners of the second semi-final which is being played next week between Stone Old Alleynians and Wolverhampton Sporting.

Lichfield finished the season as runners-up in the League behind Congelton Town remaining undefeated at home all season. Of their thirteen home games Lichfield drew four against Dudley Town, Stourport Swifts, Stone Old Alleynians and tomorrow’s opponents Darlaston Town which ended 2-2, Lichfield’s Joe Haynes scoring a 25 yard screamer in injury time to draw the teams level. When the teams met at The Paycare Stadium less than a month ago, Darlaston ran out winners 4-0.

Lichfield City’s dangerman Daniel Smith finished runner-up in the league scoring charts scoring 27 goals in 33 appearances, the club’s other major scorers were Jack Edwards with 13 goals and Liam Kirton scoring 10.

Both clubs have scored a similar amount of goals this season, Darlaston Town with 84 and Lichfield 81, but it is the conceding of goals that is the difference between the two sides. Darlaston conceding 42 whereas Lichfield have conceded just 33, second lowest in the league.

Lichfield progressed to the final by beating Highgate 3-1 last Saturday with with a Daniel Smith brace and Jack Edwards also got on the score sheet. Darlaston beat Stourport Swifts 3-1 at The Paycare Stadium, Kieran Cooke scoring from the penalty spot and a brace from skipper and central defender Alex Foreshaw secured Darlaston’s place in the play-off final.

Tomorrow’s game promises a lot. Both are good footballing sides and evenly matched so the stage is set for a right royal footballing battle.

A large crowd is expected tomorrow at the Trade Tyre Community Stadium. Supporters are urged to get there early to avoid the last minute entrance and also to ensure that they take advantage of the additional free parking that is publicised below in the graphic.

Entrance is Adults £7.00, Concessions £4.00
We understand that there will be a programme on sale and the gates are likely to open around 1.30 p.m.

We hope that many Darlaston supporters will make the trip tomorrow for the seasons ending game and that they are in fine vocal support.

The supporters have always been our 12th man this season and played a very important part in the clubs success. All we ask, is for just one more time.

Parking Details andPublic Transport to tomorrows game are shown below.