Chris Rawlinson admits that it’s time his record in cup competitions with Spalding United improved – starting with Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup clash against Wellingborough Town.
The Tulips will be hot favourites to progress against Future Lions UCL Premier Division outfit Wellingborough at the Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field (3pm), but have endured a wretched recent record in knockout competitions.
Spalding failed to win any of their ties in the Lincs FA Senior Cup, FA Cup, Integro League Cup or FA Trophy last year – and Rawlinson insists that it simply wasn’t good enough.
“My record in cup matches here leaves a lot to be desired,” said the Spalding supremo. “It’s time to set that record straight.
“It’s fantastic that we’ve got a home draw and hopefully we can go on a run, it’d be great for the fans.
“There’s not a lot of local football this weekend, so it’d be great if we got a few more people through the gate. I think the club would love a cup run. It’s a different kind of pressure for us as compared to the league games.
“We’re all looking forward to the game.”
Following their FA Cup clash, the Tulips make the short trip to Wisbech Town for a Bank Holiday Monday derby in the Evo-Stik East Division (3pm).
Promoted Wisbech, who knocked the Tulips out of the FA Cup last season, lost their league opener 1-0 to Frickley on Saturday.
Rawlinson is refusing to look past the FA Cup game, but admits the derby will be a spicy affair.
“It’s always tough to go to Wisbech,” added the Tulips boss. “The games between us always have that added edge.
“If we can take the intensity we showed in the first two games, we’ll be in good shape.”
