Workington manager Chris Willcock knows where to turn for the lowdown on Tuesday’s opponents City of Liverpool.
His old club Ramsbottom drew 0-0 on Saturday at Liverpool and they are now managed by his former number two Lee Donafee.
Willcock said: “We worked together for 11 years in various dressing rooms and are big friends. We socialise together and our families socialise together.
“Ahead of Saturday we were both wishing each other all the best for the two opening games.
“I first got to know Lee when I had him as a player and became friends. It was a natural step to get him in as my assistant when the opportunity arose.
“I every club we have worked together Lee has been a very popular and respected figure. I am sure he is going to do well for Rammy.
“He knows the game, is a good coach and excellent at man management.
“When I was engrossed in a game he would spot things and just come and whisper in my ear something he had noticed. He’s very observant.
“I will know from him all I need to know about City of Liverpool, but as I keep saying to the lads, it’s more about how we perform on the night.”
Donafee, nicknamed Diego, is based in Liverpool and as a licenced UEFA coach has worked at both Everton and Stoke.
He played under Willcock at Winsfored and became his assistant at Glossop North End.
Workington are one of six teams who won on the opening day but the other five face away trips tomorrow.
Marine actually go to Ramsbottom and as Reds play them twice in the next fortnight the Willcock/Donafee connection will go into overdrive.
Runcorn Linnets travel to Glossop North End; Warrington Rylands are at Newcastle Town; Mossley visit Colne and Market Drayton are away to Widnes.
Finally, the big question, when do Reds meet Ramsbottom – home on September 14 and away on February 19.
