Andy Thorn urges Kidderminster Harriers to do themselves justice

The club are gearing up for one of the biggest days in their history when they take on the Premier League Black Cats at the Stadium of Light in the FA Cup fourth round.

Thorn is no stranger to the big cup occasion having played in three Wembley finals, including Wimbledon's famous 1988 victory over Liverpool.

And he says it is vital his players don't lose sight of the task at hand through all the hype.

"It's important we go and do ourselves justice," he said. "You don't want to go and come off the pitch wishing you had done this or done that, or leave anything out there.

"It's important we get ourselves ready. That's important our focus is on the game and everybody else is as well.

"I know the supporters are going to have a fantastic day out. "

Harriers are set to be backed by an away following of at least 3,500 fans, with the club confident of selling more of their 5,000 allocation in the next couple of days.

But on the pitch, they warmed up for the clash in less than illustrious fashion with a 2-1 home defeat to Dartford, the first setback of Thorn's two-week reign.

The manager admitted some relief at being able to turn his full attention to the cup-tie.

"I'm pleased now we can just focus on Sunderland and do our best to prepare properly for everything we can," he said.

"I'm sure for the boys it'll be a fantastic day.

"Tuesday was disappointing because we had a chance to close the gap on a few but in hindsight when you sit back and look at the table we are in a good position.

"But it's important we keep our foot on the pedal."

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