WORCESTER City are preparing to embark on one of the biggest weeks in the club’s recent history.

In the space of just four days, Carl Heeley’s side face two cup matches at Aggborough that could have a huge bearing on their season.

Today, they host Conference outfit Halifax in the FA Trophy first round proper (3pm) before Wednesday’s Scunthorpe United showdown in an FA Cup second round replay.

Although they are also knocking on the door of the Conference North play-offs, their success in both cup competitions has captured the imagination locally and nationally and brought a much-needed boost to the club’s finances.

Manager Carl Heeley has described City’s 14-game unbeaten run as the finest spell of his near two-decade association with the club, which included more than 500 appearances as a player and doesn’t want it to end.

He said: “It’s easily the best time I have had at the club and we have got to keep going on this run as long as we possibly can because the belief gets more and more with each positive result.

“We are going to have two incredibly tough games today and Wednesday but it’s good to test ourselves against higher-ranked opposition on a regular basis. We are really enjoying it.”

City will see their largest crowd of the season against Scunthorpe on Wednesday but today’s attendance has the potential to break the 1,000-barrier for the first time at Aggborough this term.

Worcester will be hoping for a proportion of the support that journeyed to Scunthorpe to turn out against Halifax, particularly given that tickets for the BT Sport-televised replay will be on sale.

Blue and Whites chairman Anthony Hampson said: “Both of the next two games are as important as each other in both their respective competitions and are, as ever, against tough opposition.

“Many times now, the manager and players have cited the outstanding support our vocal fans have had on their performances at crucial moments in these big games and the two coming up will be no exception.”

He continued: “What is also relevant is the profile the players’ efforts have given the club and made people far more aware of what can be achieved with City if there is full support.

“This provides enduring energy, something that for too long has eluded the club.

“Having said that, the manager will be focused on each game.

“Today in the Trophy will hopefully confirm that Worcester supporters will come out again to watch two good sides, both in form, give excellent value for money entertainment, with of course a City victory.”