MOTD crew backs Chasetown
Chasetown are being backed by BBC's Match of the Day crew to overcome visitors Nuneaton tomorrow and reach the FA Cup first round again.
Chasetown are being backed by BBC's Match of the Day crew to overcome visitors Nuneaton tomorrow and reach the FA Cup first round again.
The Scholars are hoping to repeat history of two years ago when they took Oldham to a replay by securing the chance to face the big boys.
Back then, the nation's favourite TV football programme was broadcast from Chasetown's Church Street ground when they hosted the League One side.
Now they are backing the British Gas Business Southern League Midlands One side again after boss Charlie Blakemore received messages of support from presenters Ray Stubbs, Mark Bright and Steve Wilson.
"I've had texts - one from Mark Wilson and one from Mark Bright wishing us all the best and a voicemail from Ray Stubbs saying the same after saying he had a great day with us two years ago," said Blakemore.
Chairman John Donnelly is hoping for the presence of golden greats from Villa's past can conjure some more Cup magic after inviting European Cup winner Colin Gibson to the game.
The multi-millionaire entrepreneur is also hoping for a few laughs as well after inviting comedians Mick Miller and Duncan Norvelle.
Chasetown are hoping the tie is a sell-out after police made the match all ticket and 2,000 places were made available.
Around 800 were snapped up when they went on sale to season ticket holders and voucher holders on Wednesday.
And with Nuneaton having sold their entire 500 allocation, hopes are high of attracting a 1,500-plus gate.
Blakemore is convinced his side will need all the support they can against the Blue Square North side.
"We're massive underdogs because they're a really good side," said the boss.
"We've had them watched and I looked through the teamsheet and it frightened me to death, so I put it down.
"They're one of the biggest non-League clubs in terms of fans and I think it's one of the toughest games this club has ever faced.
"So we need everyone to bring their scarves and flags to cheer us on because they can be our 12th man.
"It would be great if fans who followed us two years ago come along to cheer us on again."
Blakemore, who has a fully fit squad, has challenged his squad to achieve their own slice of history.
"I'll be talking about the memories of Blyth Spartans and Oldham in 20 years' time, but I want this new, young squad to create new memories and write another chapter," he said.
"Each and every one of them has to play out of their skin just to compete with Nuneaton.
"The one thing I will guarantee is weÕll be giving it 110 per cent. I shouldn't need to motivate the players for this."
Blakemore has challenged strikers Kyle Perry and Dean Perrow to continue wreaking havoc with defences.
Perrow is the joint fourth highest scorer in Midlands One with seven goals, while Perry's workrate has helped create the openings for his partner.
"It's a chance for them to grab the headlines but all of the players must have that in mind," said the boss.
"This is an opportunity they may never get again. They have to enjoy the occasion because you blink and it's over."
The squad will retain their tradition of a pre-match slap-up meal by dining at the Uxbridge Arms at 11am before the game.
