King's Lynn Town boss, and ex-Fenmen manager, Gary Setchell. Picture: Ian Burt

Managers Gary Setchell and Steve Appleby both admit today’s derby between King’s Lynn Town and Wisbech Town has more riding on it than most friendlies.

Wisbech Town manager Steve Appleby. Picture: Brian Purdy

Linnets boss Setchell - who used to manage Wisbech - insists there is a “meaningful feel” to the clash between the fierce A47 rivals.

And with a host of players having crossed the ‘uncrossable’ divide since the clubs last played in 2003, Setchell believes there will be plenty of competitiveness on show this afternoon.

He said: “There’s been lots of banter flying about on forums. This game’s certainly got a meaningful feel to it, which is a good thing. There were a couple of meaty tackles in our match against Yaxley and I expect it to be no different today.

“I get on well with Apps (Appleby), their board, and some of their players. A few of those get on with ours and visa versa. There’s definitely bragging rights up for grabs.”

Rob Hughes (groin) will miss the game after injuring himself during Lynn’s 3-3 draw at Yaxley on Thursday. Former Peterborough Northern Star midfielder Ali Nyang will be given a trial by Setchell at The Walks this afternoon (3pm kick-off) as a result.

Wisbech beat Sleaford Town 2-0 on the same night and Fenmen boss Appleby looks likely to include Paul Cousins - who was sacked by Lynn for an internal dispute last season - in his side again.

Appleby said: “Cousi’s absolutely fine about going back. We haven’t discussed it and we won’t be discussing it. As far as he’s concerned he’s going to play against one of his ex-clubs and he wants to perform. That’s it.

“I wish games like this happened every week. They are the reason you play football - however unfriendly it may be it should make you play better. This will be a competitive game and for the public it’s one to see”.

Setchell, on Cousins, said: “I don’t expect there to be any issues. What happened did so a year ago. It’s done and dusted. Mistakes were made, he’s paid for them and we’ve all moved on.”