EASTLEIGH manager Richard Hill believes his side will be the underdogs when they take on Kidderminster Harriers in the FA Cup at Aggborough today (3pm).

The Vanarama Conference rivals are vying for a place in the first round proper and the chance to face Football League opposition.

Despite being level on points in the table, Hill reckons Harriers are the favourites to progress because they have always been ranked higher than his newly promoted Spitfires.

“The pressure, if there is any, is all on them,” Hill said. “Kidderminster are an established Conference Premier club and an ex-Football League club as well.

“Everyone wants a home draw, preferably against lower league opposition, but 50 cent of us are going to be disappointed.

“No one can choose who comes out of the hat or whether it’s home or away and we’ll be going to Kidderminster as underdogs.”

The big-spending south coast club have former Harriers striker James Constable in their ranks as well as ex-Hereford United forward Stuart Fleetwood.

Meanwhile, Whild will be hoping the £12,500 on offer for the winners will help him secure the services of Kevin Nicholson on a permanent deal.

The 34-year-old left-back has been a consistent performer since joining the club in the summer but is only on non-contract terms because of the club’s financial situation.

That, however, has stabilised in recent weeks, with the club reaching an agreement with former directors and benefactors Ernie and Kath Lane.

Prize money from a cup run would also come in useful in tying former Torquay stalwart Nicholson to a fixed contract.

“Kevin has done brilliantly for us and he’s happy at the club,” Whild said. “We’ve had on-going talks with him and we’re hoping to be able to offer him something.

“Obviously, we have to be mindful of the club’s situation, but that is being looked at by people above me.”