Harriers keep eyes on the prize

Unfortunately I was unable to attend the game on the weekend but from what I’ve heard and read the Harriers were rather fortunate to escape with a replay. On paper it looked to be a fairly kind draw but that is never the case in this competition. The FA Cup creates a level playing field where history has shown that the underdog can prevail.

Given the hectic fixture schedule of the Blue Square Premier a replay was the last thing Steve Burr and his side needed. However, they are still in the hat and this is where everyone wants to be. Players, fans and board members alike love a good cup run. It provides a welcome sideshow to the everyday bread and butter of league football. Plus, the financial incentives, especially for non-league teams, are huge. If the Harriers can beat Corby in midweek then they stand to earn £12,500. Obviously, the further you progress, the more you stand to win.

This in turn could then have a significant impact on the league campaign. Additional funds, which Chairman Mark Serrell has stated have not been included in the cash for clubs financial plans for the season, could then be used to enhance the squad. With Danny Lewis sidelined through injury Burr is keen to sign a new goalkeeper and such a financial boost would allow him to do this. It would also mean he could possibly recruit a few more players to bolster his squad with that has looked a little depleted through injury in recent weeks.

Speaking of injuries, Kyle Storer suffered a suspected fractured cheekbone on Saturday and could face a six to eight week spell on the sidelines. It’s another blow but from what I hear the treatment room will hopefully become a little less crowded in the coming weeks. Injuries have certainly taken their toll and hindered what had been a solid start to the campaign.

Although the team currently sit 12th in the table they are still within touching distance of the play-offs. The game at Steel Park in midweek represents a difficult challenge but it is one that could turn around the teams’ fortunes and get them back on track. So far this season the Harriers have enjoyed more success on their travels than at Aggborough and hopefully this trend will continue, at least until the full-time whistle blows on Wednesday night.

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