COACHLOADS of Nantwich Town supporters will roar on their side in their FA Vase semi-final clash at Cammell Laird on Saturday.

At least five coaches will be needed to transport Dabbers fans to Merseyside to watch Steve Davis and his men bid to establish a lead in the first leg.

Replica shirts and scarves are being snapped up by fans in the grip of cup fever as they pray Nantwich can make it to Birmingham City's St Andrews for the final.

Chairman Clive Jackson said: 'There are certainly a lot of people ready to travel and support us. Everyone is looking forward to a great day.'

Player-boss Davis has been busy in the transfer market during the run-up to the big match. While midfield scrapper Martin O'Connor has left for Hednesford, Kidsgrove hitman Darren Twigg has signed to play for Nantwich.

Centre-half Tim Alexander, a Crewe Vagrants hockey star, has put pen to paper, while hopes remain high that former Chester City midfielder Andy Porter could join before Friday's noon transfer deadline.

Danny Griggs should have recovered from illness by Saturday, leaving Davis a fully-fit squad to choose from. And he has a secret plan to avenge the two league defeats inflicted by Laird already this season.

He said: 'I think both teams have respect for each other. It's just about who performs on the day. We don't mind being the underdogs.

'We held a few things back during the last league meeting as I didn't really want to show my hand. We might just surprise them.

'The object of the first leg is not to get beaten. Then we can have a damned good go at them at Jackson Avenue, on April 9. We're looking forward to it.'

Bury Town and Hillingdon Borough contest the other semi final.

Nantwich Town replica shirts and scarves are on sale at FP Sports, Hospital Street. For details on official travel to Cammell Laird phone Malbank Coaches on 01270 628848.