Rushall Olympic targeting cup upset appearing in FA Cup first round for the first ever time

The Pics welcome Accrington Stanley to Dales Lane after a dramatic win over Peterborough Sports on penalties in a fourth qualifying round replay.

However Rushall, who have never appeared at this stage of the competition before, have struggled in the National League North so far this season, sitting second-from-bottom having returned 10 points from the first 14 games. 

But, with league positions cast aside - albeit 40 places between the Pics and Accrington of 16th in League Two - Rushall boss Adam Stevens is relishing the opportunity for his side to produce a cup upset. 

“We’ve created history,” said Stevens. “If it’s going to be our destiny then so be it.

“We know that we’ve got to play well and they’ve got to be off their game.

“It’s a free hit for us really. We want to enjoy the occasion but give a good account of ourselves.

“We’ve got to defend really well and when the chances come along we’ve got to take them.

“The thing is to go in with no fear. That’s the key.

“I look at it and I think it’s new to them coming to us and it’ll be interesting to see how they adjust to our pitch.

“But, we’ve got to be on our game and not make silly errors and give ourselves a chance.

“We know we’ve got tools who can hurt anyone.

“We’ve got some lads back fit who we’ve been waiting for, for a while, which will help us because we’ve had a bit of a torrid time with injuries.”

Stevens is no stranger to successful cup runs on the non-league football scene, having also taken Coalville Town to the first round of the competition for the second time in their history, two years ago.

The now Rushall boss led Coalville to victory over Notts County in the competition, and is targeting another result for the ages tomorrow.

“I’ve been fortunate enough myself to have lots of good results in the FA Cup against higher league teams,” added Stevens. “On the day you never know, that’s the beauty of the cup. There’s going to be a shock somewhere and hopefully it will be us.

“Accrington are in a good vein of form. The pressure is off us. It’s a break from league actions and we’ll be revved up and raring to go.”

Steve is also hoping that the first round tie can bring a bumper crowd to Dales Lane, saying: “We’ve created history for the town and the football club and hopefully local people will come down, because it’s something to be proud of.

“It puts little old Rushall on the map. We’re a small team at our level in the National League North, never mind in the FA Cup first round. So let’s make it loud and proud.”

Elsewhere, in the National League North, Kidderminster Harriers welcome Buxton while in the Southern Central Premier, Halesowen Town host Spalding United and Stourbridge entertain Biggleswade Town.