CHAIRMAN Anthony Hampson is hoping Worcester City can double their money in the FA Cup by reaching the first round proper.

City have already banked £12,000 following Tuesday’s 2-0 replay victory over Vanarama Conference North rivals Leamington and a 3-1 success against Rugby Town in the previous round.

There is now a further £12,500 up for grabs if Carl Heeley’s side can overcome Greenwich Borough, who play three levels lower in the non-league pyramid than Worcester, in the fourth qualifying round at Aggborough on Sunday, October 26 (3pm).

Victory against the Southern Counties East minnows would unlock the potential for a match against Football League opposition and an additional £18,000 in prize money.

Hampson also believes City’s FA Cup run could bring their exile from Worcester to a wider audience and generate funds for a potential new ground, which the club’s supporters’ trust want to build at Perdiswell.

He said: “The result on Tuesday emphasised how far Carl Heeley and his management team have developed the players and the style of patient build-up play that has been a joy to watch this term.

“As far as the club is concerned, it was a big one to win and keeps the FA Cup dream alive.

“That’s great for the fans and the club’s coffers and we can only hope that if we can generate further momentum in the competition more will follow.

“Who knows? This could be a golden opportunity to pump prime the new stadium at Perdiswell.”

Heeley accepts the importance of the cash to the club but also wants the younger players in the team to make the most of their success.

He said: “There’s enough experience within the camp but for the boys who haven’t experienced it in the FA Cup, it’s an opportunity for them and they’ve got to embrace that.

“The financial rewards are brilliant for a club like Worcester, but that’s not a footballer’s prerogative.

“The players win games and the finance takes care of itself.

“But, having said that, it is a welcome boost and it’s something that’s certainly in the back of my mind.”

n Worcester’s Conference North match at Hyde on Saturday, October 25, will now be rescheduled.