Cup quest can kickstart Moneys’ campaign
DAVE CARTER is hoping a good FA Cup run can spark Moneyfields’ season into life.
The Dover Road boss insists his troops must make the most of the venue switch as they host Reading City in the preliminary round tomorrow (3pm).
The Hellenic League side are forced to travel to the south coast because their ground is being used for the Reading Festival.
They were able to acquire an alternative 3G pitch but Moneyfields refused to sanction the change of surface.
Carter’s men reached the third qualifying round last season and he would love to see a repeat.
‘It’s a big game in the biggest cup competition non-league clubs compete in,’ said the boss.
‘Apart from the financial rewards there is also the kudos of playing in the world-famous cup competition.
‘We did well in it last season and must aim to do the same again.
‘Playing at home should give us an advantage.’
Carter admitted his team were far from their best in a 1-1 draw with Thatcham on Tuesday night – particularly in the first half.
The visitors were quicker to the ball and caused Moneys problems with their pacy forwards.
Conor Bailey was harshly sent off after being adjudged to have handled the ball on the goal-line – despite being adamant it was off his chest.
Nevertheless, Moneys dug in and scrapped in the second half to salvage a point.
Carter added: ‘We showed a lot of character and could easily have snatched the victory.’
There is some doubt over the future of striker Duncan Culley, who was signed from Hayes & Yeading earlier this summer.
He pulled out of Saturday's trip to Bideford on the morning of the game with a groin strain before being unavailable on Tuesday because of work commitments.
Carter remains optimistic he will appear to partner Ryan Pennery up front.
Steve Hutchings and Jake Raine are suspended.