Parkinson’s working to avoid Reds giant-killing

PHIL PARKINSON will be leaving no stone unturned as Wrexham plan to avoid a nasty FA Cup surprise at the hands of Marine on Saturday.

The Reds begin the cup campaign with a fourth qualifying round tie against the Northern Premier League Division One North West outfit, managed by former Chester manager Neil Young, at Rossett Park this weekend.

The Mariners reached the third round of the competition for just the second time in the club’s history last season, beating higher league opponents Chester, Colchester and Havant & Waterlooville before bowing out to Tottenham Hotspur.

Keen to ensure Wrexham are just as prepared as they would be for a league fixture, Reds boss Parkinson himself and assistant Steve Parkin ran the rule over their opponents in last night’s home game with Kidsgrove Athletic.

“Marine have got a good pedigree themselves,” said Parkinson.

“Me and Steve were going to see them play on Tuesday, I have been to the ground before in pre-season so we know what to expect.

“We have had them watched the last couple of games as well so we know what they are all about but it will be good for me and Steve to go and have a look at them and get to know all the players, and prepare for this game as professionally as we always do.

“It’s a cup tie, both teams are going to be really up for it and we have got to make sure we are ready to compete first and foremost.

“It is going to be a terrific afternoon because it will be a good crowd, probably one of Marine’s biggest crowds, and we have got to be ready for action.

“So far preparation has been good.”