WHEN the draw is made for the Southampton Senior Cup later this month, there will be a very special name in the hat.

The 2017/18 season is the 100th in the competition’s history and the area’s biggest club, Southampton FC, are ready to add some extra sparkle to the occasion by entering a team.

“To have the most senior club in Southampton enter is so fitting for such an anniversary,” said Southampton Divisional FA secretary Mike Harvey.

“The SDFA have a fantastic relationship with the club with all but two finals being hosted by Southampton FC.”

Saints last won the trophy 33 years ago when they beat North Baddesley 3-2 on April 24, 1984.

They sit second in the table of winners, having played in nine finals and lifted the cup seven times.

They won it in 1910, 1912 and 1913 as Southampton Reserves and triumphed again in 1946 and 1970.

Two more wins followed as Southampton A in 1983 and 1984, both times beating North Baddesley 5-1 and 3-2.

Current holders Sholing, who beat Team Solent 3-1 at St Mary’s in May, have made ten final appearances, winning the trophy nine times.

Eighty-one of the 99 finals to date were staged at The Dell and there have been 16 more since the move to St Mary’s.

The only other grounds to host the game were Lewrys Meadow, Botley, in 1923 and Testwood Park, Totton, in 1937 after the original match at The Dell was abandoned.

Welcoming Saints back into the Senior Cup fold, SDFA assistant secretary Greg Dickson said: “This is the 100th year the Cup has been competed for and to have the most senior club in the area entering is something to be very proud of.

“Southampton FC are happy to play their games as drawn –either home or away.

“To have a Premier League team entering the competition and the final being played at a Premier League stadium makes the SDFA Saturday Senior Cup, in my opinion, one of the most prestigious in the country.”

The draw for the first two rounds will be released before the end of this month.

Anyone wishing to get involved in the competition – i.e. with sponsorship – can phone Mike Harvey on 07936 398902 or Greg Dickson on 07496 804555.

The SDFA are planning to put a publication together to celebrate 100 SFDA Senior Cup finals. If anyone has access to any cup final memorabilia, such as programmes, photographs, team lineups, etc, could they please ring Greg Dickson (number above) or email him at secretary@sholingfc.com