Barnet boss John Still and Carlisle manager Roddy Collins are good friends and avid boxing fans. But the camaraderie will be forgotten when each goes for a knock-out blow in Saturday's FA Cup clash at Underhill.
Eastender Still lived a few doors away from Terry Spinks, who won an Olympic gold medal.
Dublin-born Roddy's brother Steve Collins, who lives in Whetstone, is the former supermiddleweight world champion.
Roddy was manager of League of Ireland club Bangor, and later Bohemians, before taking over at Carlisle.
He had been linked with the managerial vacancy at Barnet after Tony Cottee departed in March. But Still, who was director of football, resumed his former role as manager.
Still is likely to rely on the squad that beat Woking 3-0 on Saturday.
What about Barnet's prospects against the strugggling Third Division side?
"All cup-ties are tough, but we are playing well and couldn't be more confident," he said.
"Carlisle are travelling down on Friday, but I shall not be going to see Roddy. Business is business," said Still. "But we'll have a few pints together afterwards."
Injured trio John Doolan, who has been troubled by a hamstring problem, Stevie Searle and Frazer Toms were all due to play for the reserves in a friendly against Grays Athletic yesterday.
November 14, 2001 17:37
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