Sporting Khalsa eye FA Cup giant-killing in Hereford showdown
Ian Rowe has challenged his Sporting Khalsa to defy the odds and cause an upset in the FA Cup.
Khalsa welcome Hereford of the National League North in the second qualifying round tomorrow.
Looking to bounce back from crashing out of the FA Trophy at the hands of Coleshill Town last weekend, boss Rowe is hoping for the ‘magic of the cup’ to inspire his side to victory.
Asked if he is excited for the tie, Rowe said: “Very much so. We gave the lads the night off on Tuesday because we have got a couple of knocks and so they can rest to be ready to plot a mission to try and overhaul Hereford.
"It would be great to get through. They are going to be strong favourites for the game, let’s not get it twisted. They are two leagues higher than us.
"I have said to our lads that domestically it is the best competition in the world, so let’s try and make the most of it.
"And if we do fall, then fall on our sword rather than our knees, let’s give it a right go."
The clash is one that Rowe is looking forward to, and not just because of the chance to go within two more wins of reaching the first round proper.
The Khalsa boss revealed the good relationship between the sides, but insisted that this will be forgotten for 90 minutes tomorrow.
"We have got a good relationship with Hereford," he continued.
"When our stadium was redone, they came down and opened it for us after we had the 3G pitch and new stand.
"I know they used our ground as a training base once upon a time as well.
"But, obviously relationships go out of the window for 90 minutes in the FA Cup."
Khalsa have not advanced past the second qualifying round in a decade, when they reached the fourth qualifying round.
Elsewhere, Chasetown host Banbury United looking to advance into the third qualifying round for the first time in three years. The scholars staged a dramatic comeback to win 3-2 in extra-time again Worcester City in the previous round.
In the Northern One West, Stafford Rangers travel to Atherton Collieries looking to secure their fifth win in six matches. The Rangers sit third in the standings with four wins from their opening seven games.
Meanwhile, in the Northern One Midlands, Lichfield City host Coventry Sphinx hoping to continue their strong start to life at step four non-league football. Ivor Green's side are currently sixth, one point adrift of top spot.
