Stafford Rangers told to be fearless by former FA Cup hero
It is 20 years since Stafford last reached the first round proper - something former goalkeeper Danny Alcock remembers fondly.
Former Stafford Rangers goalkeeper Danny Alcock says his old club must “attack the game” ahead of Boro’s FA Cup first-round clash against Grimsby Town, writes James Sudworth.
It comes twenty years since Alcock featured for Rangers in a 1-1 draw with Maidenhead United, the last time the Marston Road club participated in the first round proper.
Currently working as first-team goalkeeping coach at Wolves, Alcock believes Graham Deakin’s side can overcome their League Two visitors despite four divisions separating them in the football pyramid.
“They should attack the game. They've shown in previous rounds how good they can be. Enjoy it and you never know. It's the magic of the FA Cup,” Alcock said.
A product of Stoke City's academy, Alcock made 78 appearances for Stafford Rangers between 2004 and 2008 and was part of the squad that reached the second round in November 2006, following replay victory over Maidenhead before eventually falling to a 3-0 away defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Recounting that run, Alcock described it as a great experience for everyone involved.
“We had a great changing room, a really good bunch of lads, and we were all over the moon to reach the second round,” he recalled.
“There was definitely a different buzz for people around the club, and especially the fans, for them, a cup run is special.”
Deakin’s side head into the weekend in strong form, having won four of their last five matches to sit second in the Northern One West.
Stafford Rangers will welcome Grimsby Town to a sold-out Marston Road this Sunday, with the match broadcast live on TNT Sports.
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