Pitmen preach Cup caution

Hednesford Town boss Rob Smith is preaching caution ahead of Saturday's start to their FA Cup campaign despite his Pitmen side recording their fourth win from six opening games against Eastwood Town on Tuesday night, writes Chris Brewerton.

The Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division outfit make the short trip to Redditch United in the First Qualifying Round for the second year in a row as they look to embark on a legendary Cup run of yesteryear.

Hednesford's opponents on Saturday currently lie in thirteenth place in the Evo-Stik Southern Premier Division having won one of their first five games but Smith is under no illusions as to the threat they pose after emerging from a tumultuous period off the pitch in the last few seasons.

"I think it is a very tough draw for us. They have improved massively since last season and have some familiar names in the side who will want to do well against us; we will have to be at our best to progress."

Despite his caution, the Keys Park manager still believes they can go far in the competition. "We want to progress as far as we can in the competition," he said. "It is important for all connected with the club and vital just to get through Saturday at the moment though. It’s the luck of the draw after that but on any given day we can beat any team."

Saturday’s Cup clash kicks off at 3pm at The Valley. Hednesford are expecting a large number of fans to make the trip and organising coach travel.

Supporters looking to get to the game are encouraged to contact Ken Leese for a seat on the Travel Club coach by calling 07935 723290. Tickets are £10 with coach leaving Keys Park at 11.45am.