CAN Worcester City put their league woes behind them and have a decent run in the FA Umbro Trophy?

That's the big question as they begin this season's Wembley quest with a difficult second round trip to Nationwide Conference side Hayes on Saturday.

Despite the west London side's lowly position in the Conference, few would argue that it will be a daunting test for John Barton's men at Church Road.

Former City manager Graham Allner said when the draw was made: "If you talk to anyone in the Conference they would say it's as tough a place as you can get."

Hayes showed their quality by drawing 2-2 with Third Division Hull City in a televised FA Cup second round tie last Saturday, with star striker Lee Charles scoring both goals.

However, the prize for the winners of next Tuesday's replay at Hull is a glamorous home draw with Chelsea in round three.

That could well work in City's favour on Sat-urday, as it is almost certain that one or two Hayes players will have their minds on a possible meeting with Chelsea.

Also, City have generally raised their game against better sides this season -- and some of their players with Conference experience may feel more at home playing against a Conference side.

City achieved their best run in the Trophy for some years last season, and were unlucky to lose 1-0 at another Conference side, Northwich Victoria, in round four. They have not got past that stage since 1982, when they made the last of their four appearances in the quarter-finals.

If City can somehow pull off a result against Hayes, the effect on morale at St George's Lane could be startling and give them a major boost in their battle to get away from the bottom of the Dr Martens League Premier Division.

If Saturday's game is drawn, the replay will be at St George's Lane on Monday, December 6. The replay date has been delayed because of Hayes' FA Cup replay.

Thursday, November 25, 1999.