Charlie seeks more cup joy

By mbeardmore

CHARLIE Blakemore admitted he hopes the 'every other year' pattern will continue for the Scholars after the FA Cup draws were made this week.

After their famous Cup runs in 2005 and 2007 – featuring clashes with Oldham Athletic, Port Vale and Cardiff City – the Scholars boss is hoping for a memorable 2009 as well.

And the Scholars have been handed a favourable draw in the Preliminary Round – a home tie against either AFC Wulfrunians or Boldmere St Michaels, who both play one league below.

Victory in that tie would give the Scholars a First Qualifying Round trip to either Kidsgrove Athletic, Bewdley Town or Alvechurch.

But Blakemore said: "They are all going to be tough games in the Cup and we have to be on top of our game whoever we play because we are a scalp to everyone at this stage.

"Every year teams will want to try and beat us because of what we have achieved in the FA Cup.

"We will be favourites for the first couple of games but we will give the right level of respect to whoever we play.

"The expectations now are that we will go on a cup run every other year! I know I'd be very pleased if we could break a Cup record every other year!

"And if we don't it won't be for the want of trying because the FA Cup has been a major boost for us the last few years, it has put the club and the area in the national spotlight."

Chasetown have also been handed a tough task in the FA Trophy – they will visit fellow UniBond South side Lincoln United in the Preliminary Round on October 3.

If they progress, the Scholars will then visit either Prescot Cables or Lancaster City in the First Qualifying Round Proper.

Meanwhile, Chasetown's youth side could earn themselves a trip to Kidderminster Harriers in the Second Qualifying Round of the FA Youth Cup.

The young Scholars first face Bedworth United and then either Rocester or Bromyard, with Kidderminster, Coventry Sphinx or Wednesfield awaiting the winners.

Chasetown are now back in training with Blakemore putting the finishing touches to his squad over the next few weeks.

Chad Sheppard and Tony Onokah have both been released by the Scholars, who are now preparing for their marquee friendly at Cardiff next Friday (July 10).

Blakemore added: "There are a lot of things to focus on before the cup comes around and preparation for the new season is going well, we are really looking forward to it."