IT'S coming to the time of the season when Cup Finalists are decided.

But unlike 10 years ago and before that -- does a place in a Cup Final still give players the same buzz.

I will explain what I mean.

In the past, Cup Finals where always played in whichever towns you were from on the professional stadiums, eg Ewood Park, Turf Moor, Deepdale, Bloomfield Road etc.

But nowadays most finals are played at Accrington Stanley or the LFA's ground at Leyland.

With respect, it's not the same as playing at Ewood Park or Turf Moor.

I have been extremely lucky during my playing career to have played at all the league grounds in this area and I was even more fortunate to play at Wembley Stadium.

And I can tell you it makes the occasion even more of a special event when your Cup Final is played on a pro ground.

So I think every effort should be made to stage end of season Cup Finals at football league grounds again and give the players and officials a real day to remember.

Lastly, I met an old friend on Rovers Demoliton Derby Day against Burnley two weeks ago. I was having a celebratory drink in the Queens in Accrington after the game when Gary Evans, a good amateur footballer from Burnley, came in and reminded me about his amazing record in the Hospital Cup competition in Burnley which he has led his Miners team to the Final again for the fourth time in five years.

This is an exceptional feat, so good luck Gaz this season. I hope win it again.