Bullish boss Danny Hussey insists that he and his Holbeach United side are bang up for their Emirates FA Cup clash at higher-graded Corby Town on Saturday (3pm).
The Tigers are underdogs for the Preliminary Round showdown with the BetVictor Southern Central Division based Steelmen at Steel Park, which will net the winner £2,890 (losers £960) of FA prize money.
But the Holbeach chief reckons his side are capable of ruffling the feathers of their opposition and expects them to give a good account of themselves.
Hussey said: “It’s going to be great experience for us, Corby usually play in front of a decent crowd – maybe anywhere from 400 to 600 people.
“The lads will be really up for the challenge, the FA Cup has that effect on players at this level.
“I’m also really looking forward to the game – Corby have four or five players that I worked with during my time with Stamford.
“There’s no getting away from it, the match is a tough one for us as Corby are a big club playing at a higher level. They’re spending quite a bit, too.
“We’re very strong defensively and will look to go there and keep things tight.
“I know the crowd there is very good, but they can soon turn if things aren’t going their way.
“If we can go there and defend well, who knows? I’d like to see the lads play the ball around a bit better and not go so direct, but we’re certainly capable of getting a result.
“The game is worth a lot of money for the club. The aim is to give a good account of ourselves and challenge for every ball. Win, lose or draw we’ll profit financially.
“But obviously we want to win through to the next round.”
Holbeach are without suspended skipper Spencer Tinkler, while striker Ryan Oliver and midfielder Joe Smith are both doubts.
Long-term absentees Jon Fairweather and Michael Frew remain sidelined too, but key defender Joe Braithwaite should return.
The Tigers also hoped to have new signing Liam Adams, snapped up on dual forms from Stamford, available.
