Hebburn manager Paul Bennett says that the little STL second division club will have a real go at their Conference Premier opponents in their FA Cup fourth qualifying round tie on Saturday.
Never before have Hebburn played at this stage of the competition in their history, and if they are to achieve the aim of every Northern League club, then they have to beat a team that is 123 places above them in the national system.
“We’re going to have a real go at them,” he said.” I would rather lose 5-0 having a go at them, than lose 5-0 by parking a bus across our penalty area and trying to keep the score down.
“The game has gripped the imagination of South Tyneside which is what the FA Cup is all about. We intend to do the club proud. I’ve told the players and the committee that they might never get this far again, and that they should make the most of the day and enjoy it.”
Bennett adds keeper Dan Regan to his squad, but he is missing defender Paul Hutchinson, who is suspended.
Ashington are also on the glory trail at former Football League club Grimsby, who are now in their second season in the Conference Premier.
Striker Jamie Clarke said: “We might be the underdogs, but we’re going to battle all the way. If Grimsby underestimate us, then they’re making a big mistake.”
The Colliers will be without injured trip Darren Lough, Gareth Bainbridge and Stephen young, but midfielders Mark O’Dea and Andy Dugdale return.
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