‘Jersey play better football’

The St Paul’s midfielder and man-of-the-match in last week’s Upton park trophy triumph for his club said: ‘We’re chalk and cheese in styles.

‘We know what to expect from Guernsey and they know what to expect from us, but whether we can do anything about that on the day is another matter.

‘We expect them to play direct football.

‘That’s not a derogatory comment – that is their style and the way they play in the league [for Guernsey FC] – but I think in the last few Murattis, since they beat us 4-1 [in 2014], we’ve been the better footballing team.

‘It’s worked a couple of times in the last three years and that’s exactly what we’ll be trying to do again on Saturday.

‘It’s the biggest occasion between the islands and it’s always seen as a must-win.’

Cannon, meanwhile, is setting his sights on a piece of Muratti history before his career comes to an end, if fitness and form allows.

The 31-year-old – set to earn his 19th cap when Jersey welcome Guernsey to Springfield tomorrow – could move joint-second with Steve Carlyon, Rory Crick and Graeme Le Maistre on the all-time Caesarean appearance list next season, before what he hopes will be a record-breaking 12 months from May 2020.

Alan ‘Nash’ Venton holds Jersey’s all-time Muratti appearance record, with 23 matches to his name between 1957-1973 (including semi-finals and replays), although Guernsey’s Les Collins (25, 1947-64) and Chris Dyer (24, 1982-96) lead the overall standings.

If Cannon appears in all upcoming semi-finals and finals, he would surpass Venton’s mark in May 2021.

‘I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t in my mind,’ said Cannon.

‘I’m ambitious and obviously barring any injuries or loss of form it’s something to go for.

‘It would be something to be proud of, but at the moment it’s all hypothetical.’

Asked if thoughts of a 19th appearance provoke nervousness and excitement akin to that experienced before his debut in 2006, he replied: ‘I wouldn’t say nervousness as such, but I am still apprehensive about the result on the day.’

Jersey’s preparations have been hindered by busy club schedules of late, meaning manager Martin Cassidy has had less time to work with his players than planned. However, Cannon says that should not affect the home side’s performance.

‘Obviously we haven’t been together as much because the last few weeks have been manic with fixture pile-ups,’ he explained. ‘But at least the players will all be match fit, which might not have been said in the last few years.

‘Everyone is in good form.’

Cannon’s St Paul’s colleague Stuart Andre has 20 caps to his name but, missing this year, he seems unlikely to feature in Muratti colours again.