Ben Herd wants nothing taken for granted in the FA cup
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Herd: We won't take Hendon lightly
By Jon CouchNovember 01, 2012
CAPTAIN Ben Herd has warned his Aldershot Town team-mates not to take Hendon lightly when the Shots open their FA Cup campaign with a visit of the north Londoners on Saturday.
The Greens are currently third from bottom in the Ryman premier division table with just one win to their name all season.
But after the Shots crashed out to Non-League opposition in the shape of Dover Athletic at this stage two seasons ago, while also being taken to a replay by Maidenhead United last term, Herd has warned that nothing should be taken for granted and insists Hendon will be given the respect they deserves.
“I’ve played against Blyth Spartans away and lost 3-0 so I’ve learnt that these sort of games have to be treated with respect,” Herd said.
“There are some definite slip-ups and someone will get beaten like that this weekend, mark my words, but it won’t be us because we will address this week, go and work hard and earn the right to win.
“We know we won’t just turn up and win, it won’t be an easy game. It’s the FA Cup, they will come and raise their game and it’s a bit of a leveller, but while we’ll treat them with respect, we’ll work our socks off and hopefully our quality will shine through.”
The Shots will be hoping that history repeats itself in the FA Cup this year. The last time they took on Hendon in the competition, back in 1970, they won 2-0 and went on to play Liverpool in round three.
But in order for that to happen again, the Shots must arrest a dismal record at the EBB Stadium this season.
Dean Holdsworth's men have taken only four league points from a possible 21 on home turf so far this term, scoring just two goals along the way.
It's a stat that hasn't gone un-noticed by Shots starlet Adam Mekki.
"After taking four points away from home in a week, we are now looking to continue to progress in our home games, starting with the FA Cup on Saturday," the Academy ace said.
"I grew up watching the FA Cup on the TV and always dreamt of playing in it. Saturday is a good opportunity for us to progress and hopefully we can go on a similar run to the Carling Cup last year when we played Manchester United.
"The cup is something different to look forward to and work towards. Every team has got every chance for silverware and there are always upsets. Obviously we are not the favourites but we are looking to create a few along the way."
Aldershot Town have reduced prices for the visit of Hendon on Saturday. Adults' seating is £14 and terrace £12, concessions at £10 and £8 and juniors at £7 and £5.
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