MATT Paterson is determined to create happier FA Cup memories this weekend – six years after being sent off for Saints against Manchester United.

‘MattPat’ is still reminded of the red-card he received for the studs-up lunge on Nemanja Vidic in the first half of a 3-0 third-round defeat to Manchester United at St Mary’s in January 2009.

He is now preparing to lead Gosport Borough’s attack in the club’s first appearance in the FA Cup first round, having scored 13 goals in 16 games since moving from Aldershot in the summer.

Paterson is well aware that victory against Colchester United at Privett Park on Sunday (2pm kick off)will leave Gosport one win from joining the likes of United in round three.

But he admits it will always be difficult to forget that televised defeat against Sir Alex Ferguson’s side, who were leading 1-0 when he was given his marching orders in the 37th minute.

“We were in the Championship at the time so it was a great opportunity for the club and for us,” says the 25 year-old, who comes from Fareham.

“It was a bad challenge, I try not to remember it but it still gets mentioned. I’ve been sent off since but nothing as high profile as that!”

Full interview with Matt Paterson in this week's Sports Pink