WORCESTER Raiders are gearing up for their biggest match in their short history this weekend when they face Atherstone Town in the Buildbase FA Vase second-qualifying round at Sixways.
Raiders have had a decent enough start to the season; winning five of their seven games in the Hellenic League Division One but face tough opposition this weekend in The Adders.
Followers of non-league football will know they are an extremely difficult side to play, least of all Worcester City supporters.
Two seasons ago The Adders knocked out Worcester City in a fifth round replay in the 2019/20 FA Vase.
Raiders' boss Chris Cornes knows his side will have to be on top form to progress.
"It'll be a tough game," he said.
"They have been a good side for years, ever since I was playing as a youngster.
"They seem to always get close to going up but for one reason or another, they don't quite get there.
"Atherstone have had a great start to the season, they are sitting pretty in their league, at the same level as us but it'll be a tough tie to get through."
Midfielder Luke Gaffney is way of the threat Atherstone pose but he is hopeful of a big crowd at Sixways as Raiders look to embark on a famous cup run.
"Hopefully we can get a fair few through the gate this weekend," he added.
"It's a huge game for the club and we want more through the door - it's a great place to play and good for the fans to go and watch us so we are all looking forward to it."
"We know Atherstone are a decent side but Chris and Shaun will make sure we are well prepared.
"Our management have told us all about them so we know were in for a tough game and we just have to leave it all on the pitch."
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