REDDITCH United have a massive incentive to beat lower league Halesowen Harriers in the FA Cup on Saturday after the FA upped the financial rewards for the early stages of the competition.

Reds chairman Rod Laight wants at least two wins in the competition which would garner the Valley side £8,500 under the new system.

At the same stage last year Redditch would have earned nothing for a win and £5,000 for winning in the next round.

But this year there is £1,000 up for grabs if United can beat the Alliance pacesetters on Saturday (ko 2pm) and a £7,500 pot for another win.

And if United could reach the first round with four wins a good cup run could mean a staggering £46,000 for the club.

Player-assistant manager Gary Hackett, who took charge of the side for Monday's 2-1 loss to Halesowen Town refused to confirm Evesham defender Paul West is the target of a seven-day approach from the club but with manager Nicky Cross tracking a defender and West unsettled at Evesham, he is the most likely target.

Former Solihull striker Joey Dowling is due back from holiday this week and could figure in Cross' FA Cup squad.

The player-boss is back after missing Monday's result because of business commitments.

United had a disappointing 1-1 draw against Bloxwich United on Saturday after a Neil Beagan strike.

Wide man Scott Colcombe is back in the fray after suspension and defender Tommy Byrne has a good chance of making the squad on Saturday after a heel injury.