DANNY McDonnell has withstood some pressure situations in his time but none more so than when he made his debut for Worcester City's opponents tomorrow Halesowen Town.

It was the last game of the season in 1995-96 and the Yeltz were snapping at the heels of leaders Rushden & Diamonds for a prized place in the Conference.

Two points separated the clubs and victory was vital if Halesowen were to have any chance of overhauling the Max Griggs-backed team.

For the young McDonnell, who had arrived at the club from Lye Town, it was a nervewracking experience to be pitched in for such an important match.

"I'd been on the fringe of the team that season without getting a start so to make my debut in the last match of the season with all that riding on it was quite a debut to remember," he said.

"Fortunately we won but so did Rushden and we missed out on promotion by two points."

That match marked the start of a successful career for McDonnell and he soon established himself as one of the best 'keepers in non-league football.

Another stalwart from that Halesowen side was midfielder John Snape who, according to McDonnell, can expect a hero's return when leaders City visit the Grove for tomorrow's Dr Martens Premier Division clash (3pm).

"John's a legend there, he's the sort of player that fans love and he was part of a great team with the likes of Phil Wood, Jim Rodwell and Evran Wright," said City's keeper.

"It was a shame that team broke up and didn't go and win the league bec-ause it was a good footballing side."

McDonnell will enjoy the rare luxury of a short trip for a game - living just 10 minutes from the ground - and adds there is a real buzz of anticipation among the Worcester players at the prospect of a local derby.

"All the lads are looking forward to the game, and training was great on Monday with everybody buzzing after Saturday's result," he said.

"I thought Cambridge played well and the match could have gone either way but it's nice to have a bit of luck and they missed a couple of good chances.

"Halesowen will be a difficult match and they will be champing at the bit because it's a local derby. The Grove is a lovely set-up, completely different to St George's Lane, much smaller and compact and I will enjoy playing there - as long as we win."

Halesowen have been buoyed by back-to-back wins against Ilkeston and an impressive 4-1 victory at Weymouth.

Manager Brendan Phillips has strengthened his squad with the additions of Gavin Stone from Ilkeston and striker Leroy May from Evesham United.

City's reserves entertain Highgate United tomorrow (2.45) in the Midland Combination League Cup.

FORMCAST: City win 2-1.