Paget Lions player-coach Antwan Russell is optimistic his team can beat Premier Division opponents North Village in their FA Cup semi-final at PHC Field on Thursday (8pm).

The experienced striker believes the First Division leaders have the requisite firepower to get the job done and are not intimidated by favourites.

“We are trying to win it so we are not coming to play second fiddle and I don’t see Village as favourites because if you look on paper my team matches up with any team,” Russell declared.

“My mentality and what I try to drill into my players is that if we are going to show up and concede defeat then we might as well not show up. When we play, we play to win and that’s just where we are at.

“We are missing one or two players but we will have some difference-makers on the day and we are coming to play, so I think it will be a good game.”

While clearly optimistic, Russell concedes that his side will need to work hard to come away victorious.

“We are playing against Kenny Thompson’s side so Village will be organised and I think it’s good for Bermuda having a First Division team in the FA Cup semi-finals,” he said.

Thompson says his team will not be taking their opponents for granted given their squad boasts players with Premier Division experience.

“Paget are top of the First Division and have a number of players with big-game experience,” he said. “We approach each match with respect for the opposition. The favourite’s tag is something for journalists and fans. We’re ready to play a semi-final match with the determination to reach the final.”