Sutton United boss Paul Doswell knows exactly what he wants should he take his team into the first round proper of the FA Cup this weekend.
United go to Hemel Hempstead, the leaders of the Southern Premier, on Saturday looking to book a possible tie against a Football League outfit for the fourth time in five seasons.
And Doswell has his heart set on a reunion of sorts – he wants Coventry City in the next round so they can re-enact one of the biggest shocks in FA Cup history.
In 1989, the Sky Blues – then a First Division outfit and FA Cup winners just two seasons before – were beaten 2-1 at Gander Green Lane.
Doswell said: “It would be a great day for the club if that happened, 25 years after the shock, and I guarantee it would be the TV match.
“I want Coventry City, and we have prepared so well for the Hemel game that I believe we’ll be in the hat come Saturday at 5pm.”
Memory (Gander Green) Lane: Sutton United's Tony Rains is mobbed by his team-mates after scoring against Coventry City in 1989 Courtesy: Tony Rains
Preparation has been key for Doswell in an impressive cup record at United.
He has guided them to first round proper ties against Notts County and Hereford United, as well as a second round clash against Notts County in 2012.
Doswell said: “We take the cup very seriously. For this game, we’ve watched Hemel play and we know they are an exceptional side, they are a Skrill South side really, and it won’t be easy.
“We have forgotten about the league this week. We’ve concentrated solely on the cup because we know how important it is to the club.”
United have raked in £12,000 in prize money so far, with another £12,500 awaiting Saturday’s winner.
Doswell said: “We have spoken long and hard with the players about the importance of this game.
“They know these chances don’t come round often.”
Hemel Hempstead Town are unbeaten in six league games at their Vauxhall Road ground, and have only lost once in all competitions since August 17.
Doswell said: “Hemel will be very tough, we know that. Any game away is tough, but their home record is excellent, there is no denying that.
“When I was listening to the draw on the radio, their name came out and I thought I don’t want them, and, of course, we came out.”
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