TONIGHT is a big, big night for Garry Flitcroft and his Chorley side as the Magpies face a cup semi-final.

Flitcroft leads his Evo-Stik League First Division North men into battle with divisional rivals AFC Fylde in the semi-final of the Lancashire United Co-Operatives Challenge Trophy.

It is a prestigious game as the Magpies chase the silverware.

Okay, the Lancashire Challenge Trophy is not their priority. That is, of course, promotion up the football pyramid.

But they will want to lift the trophy none the less, especially with the enticing prospect of a final against Bamber Bridge at the Reebok Stadium looming for tonight’s winners.

Clitheroe got there last season and even in defeat had a great night and the cup is special.

So why oh why does the Lancashire FA decide that semi-finals must be played at the County Ground?

Thurston Road ain’t special and can leave you feeling flat. Maybe it is better to play on one of the semi-finalist’s grounds.

I can see why the LFA wants to use its own ground – but I can’t see what would entice anyone there to watch when facilities at most Vodkat League grounds are better.