Cup redemption? Neil Kitching faces former club as Stafford Rangers begin FA Trophy bid
Neil Kitching believes his Stafford Rangers side “owe” the club’s supporters a run in the FA Trophy.
Stafford welcome Kitching’s former employers Boldmere St Michaels in the first qualifying round tomorrow.
After crashing out of the FA Cup at the earliest stage in 90 years, losing to Lutterworth Town last month, Kitching said his side needs to deliver more for the fans this weekend and is craving a cup run.
“We owe the fans a little bit more than we showed against Lutterworth,” said Kitching.
“We went out of the FA Cup with a whimper, albeit early in pre-season. But it was disappointing, so it would be nice to have a run in the trophy and make a bit of extra money for the club.
“We have to get past Boldmere first, they are a tough side and have recruited well.
“I keep an eye on them because it is my local club. I am expecting a difficult game, but I am looking forward to it.
“There are some really good people at the club and I am looking forward to them coming up and enjoying our hospitality after the game, hopefully with a win.”
Kitching quit his managerial role at Boldmere in January to rejoin the Rangers.
Asked if facing his former employers adds anything to the occasion, he added: “Not really, perhaps when there is a bit of bad blood with a club, but that is not the case here.
“I left on good terms and have nothing but good to say about them.
“They knew at some point that I would be moving on. I know their manager well and the lads still there.
“They will want to beat us obviously, and we want to make sure that we do and make it through.
“No extra spice, just two good clubs having a bash and trying to get through.”
The Rangers crashed out of the FA Trophy at this stage last season, losing to Walsall Wood.
Elsewhere, Darlaston Town visit Bedworth United while Chasetown go to Shifnal Town, Sporting Khalsa travel to Coleshill and Lichfield City entertain Corby Town.
