Worgan hoping for another upset
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Maidstone United goalkeeper Lee Worgan says his side have nothing to lose when they take on Wrexham in the FA Cup second round.
Worgan is also a goalkeeping coach at League 1 Gillingham and has been on the coaching staff at Priestfield since the summer.
Maidstone travel to Wrexham tomorrow (Saturday) for an historic occasion after knocking League 2 Stevenage out in the previous round, live on BT Sports.
“It’s been a fantastic season for me so far,” said the former Wales under-21 No.1.
“We half knew it was going to be a decent season if we could keep everyone fit and suspension free.
“We started well and winning games breads confidence. We’ve been flying high.”
While the Stones have challenged Margate at the top of the Ryman League, Premier Division, their FA Cup run has won them national recognition.
They are one of the smallest teams left in the competition.
Worgan has not just been enjoying himself on the pitch. Since July, he has been helping Gills’ keepers.
He and fellow Pro Soccer Academy coach Scott ChalmerStevens were recruited in the summer, to work alongside head keeper coach Tony Burns.
“It’s been brilliant working with the Gillingham keepers,” said Worgan.
“When I roll into work on a Monday after keeping a clean sheet on a Saturday, I certainly have a smile on my face.
“But when I get to Gillingham, I know it’s not about me. I am there to work with the goalkeepers and try and improve them.”
Gillingham lost to Bristol City in the first round of the FA Cup.
Worgan works closely with the youth keepers at the Gills, as well as those in the senior team, including former schoolboy international Tom Hadler.
This weekend, the Gills keepers may well have an eye on events in north Wales.
“We think it’s winnable,” said the former Wimbledon, Wycombe, Rushden and Cardiff keeper.
“Wrexham are a massive club and it wasn’t long ago that they were in the Football League.”
Worgan will be hoping to add another DVD to his collection after the Stones won the replay against Stevenage.
He said: “That DVD has been on a few times. It was a brilliant occasion for the fans.
“We got an early goal and that relaxed us a lot. We’ll be going to Wrexham with nothing to lose.” right to get involved again.
“Maidstone’s two minutes down the road, plus I’ve known half the squad for years, people like Lee Worgan, Frannie Collin, Matt Bodkin and James Rogers.
“I’ve also known Jay and Nicky Southall (assistant boss) for a long time and thought I’d give it a go.
“I’ve managed to score a few goals. Wherever I’ve been I always like to think I’ve been able to get myself in the box and get on the end of things.”
Lovell has scored three goals in as many appearances for United, including a classy backheel in the League Cup against Herne Bay last week.
And he’s ready to step up his involvement – if required.
He said: “If the chance to stick around a bit longer comes up, it would be brilliant.
“If I’m selected or needed, I’d love to be involved more but that’s down to Jay and Nicky and whether they feel the squad needs another attacking player.
“I feel fresh and I’m available. Coming back after time out has given me a taste for it.”