Stourbridge up for the cup again
Stourbridge hope to go on another remarkable FA Cup journey this season – and start out at Loughborough Dynamo tomorrow.
The Glassboys went on a historic run to the third round proper last term, where they were edged out beaten 2-1 at League Two side Wycombe Wanderers.
On their way there, they pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory over League One outfit Northampton Town in front of a packed-out crowd of 2,520 at the War Memorial Ground.
Knack
Stourbridge, who play in the Evo-Stik Premier, have had a knack of doing well in this competition over the last few years. Boss Gary Hackett, though, insists there is no room for complacency in this first qualifying round tie at Dynamo (kick-off 3pm) and said: “It is going to be a tricky game.
“We all know what is at stake. We have had fantastic runs before and we would love to have one again.”
He added: “Loughborough are only one level below. For us to lose, we would have to play badly and them to be right at it – but it can happen.
“We will do our homework on them and make sure we are fully prepared.”
Hackett expects to have a full-strength squad available for the clash.
Also in the competition, league rivals Stafford Rangers head to Peterborough Sports, who the Glassboys beat 3-1 at this stage last campaign. Boro boss Neil Kitching is desperate for a Cup run to boost the confidence of his players and the club coffers.
He said: “It is the FA Cup and we are really looking forward to it.
“We’re desperate to do well – personally, as its a great competition, for all the players and to get some funds into the club.
“It would be massive for us to go on a cup run. It will be a tough game as Peterborough Sports have started off well in their league.
“We have had a decent start as well, though, and we are all ready for the game.” Staffordshire rivals Hednesford Town, meanwhile, head to Boston Town.
Chasetown, who play in the Evo-Stik First Division South, make the short trip to Boldmere St Michaels.
Halesowen Town, after losing five of their first six league games, will hope for a much-needed confidence booster as they welcome Basford United to The Grove. And Rushall Olympic, who also have not made the best of starts in the league, go up against Potton United at Dales Lane.
