HOPE FOR MURATTI MINNOWS

THE shop windows in Alderney are already decorated in blue and white as excitement builds ahead of one of football's longest-running underdog stories.

- By Matt Badcock

On Saturday, they will host fellow channel islanders Jersey in the Muratti Vase semi-final carrying the hope that this may be the year they win their first game since 1920 – and only second ever in the competition's 120-year history – with Guernsey awaiting in the final.

"You walk past the chemist and it's got a football display, the radio shop has a display, 'Come on the Nomads' – some shops really go to town," chairman Robert Kirkland says.

"The excitement is building. It's one of the longest-standing football tournaments out there. We've got the unfortunate title of, in 105 years not winning a game since a group of men, mainly a Garrison team, were victorious in 1920.

"Ultimately it's a David and Goliath situation. People would say it's our cup final – we don't quite take it as that – but it's a great day for the club, a great day for the community that everyone full embraces.

"We're a tiny island, the old train is put on, everyone young and old is either a mascot or parked up around the field. It's a great example of grassroots and community football having that little bit of razzle dazzle."

Captain Andy Adamson – whose twin brother John plays and their dad Alan is manager – jokes how the build-up takes over each year.