1989-90 was the last time Welling United reached the second round of the F.A. Cup so there is much excitement around the club as they prepare for Saturday’s game at Plymouth Argyle.
Having seen off a resolute Brislington in the 4th qualifying round, and then beaten Luton Town, one of the Skrill Premier League promotion favourites, the Wings have hopes on making the headlines by producing an F.A. Cup shock at Home Park.
Whilst some clubs disrespect the tournament by playing weakened sides, Plymouth showed their intent on progression by hammering Lincoln City 5-0 in the last round.
Apart from the trouncing of the Imps, Plymouth’s main problem this season has been difficulty in scoring goals. At home they have won four, drawn three and lost three but have achieved that whilst only netting six times.
Injuries have blighted the Wings in recent weeks. Last weekend no fewer than six players made season’s debuts, three making their first ever Welling United senior performance.
Good news for Welling was the return of long term absentees Luis Cumbers and Conner McLaren to training this week. It will take them a while to build themselves up and they may go out on short term loans for match fitness.
Loui Fazakerley and Loick Pires are unlikely to feature for a while but there is better news in that Doug Bergqvist may be able to return and his parent club, Exeter City, have already been knocked out of the cup so he won’t need to worry about being cup-tied. Fraser Franks will also be back following his one match suspension.
Whether Harry Beautyman and Jack Obersteller will be able to take part is questionable but Kiernan Hughes-Mason will not as he has gone out on a one month loan to Skrill South Concord Rangers with the aim of regaining the form that made him such an important part of last season’s promotion winning team.
Whatever team starts, all the players involved will enjoy the thrill of knowing that potentially, they are one big result away from a ‘once in a lifetime’ tie against a Premiership team.