By Brian Bennett
Ashington have been handed a home draw in the early stages of the FA Cup.
In the extra preliminary round, the Colliers will host ENL first division outfit Horden CW with the winners at home to either Guisborough Town or Thornaby.
Colliers boss Marc Ellison said: “A home draw is definitely nice. I think we’ve had away draws for the last couple of seasons, so it’ll be great to start our competitive campaign in front of our own supporters. Hopefully we can build on the positive atmosphere that was created around the club towards the back end of last season and get a good crowd in to back the lads and help us kick-start the season.”
He continued: “On a personal note, the draw has that little bit extra for me. I had a really enjoyable spell at Horden, the manager (Jonny Payne) is one of my best mates, and I’m still good friends with a few of the players. It’s a fantastic club with some great people involved, so it’ll be good to see plenty of familiar faces. That said, once the whistle goes, all of that goes out the window. Jonny (Payne) will be wanting to beat me just as much as I’ll want to beat him, so hopefully it’s got all the makings of an enjoyable game. If I know my mate and Horden as well as I think I do, they’ll turn up full of energy, aggressive and on the front foot, so it’ll be a really tough test.”
He went on: “Everyone knows how important a good FA Cup run can be for clubs at our level. The prize money can make a real difference to non-league clubs like ourselves, so getting through to the next round would not only be a great way to start the season but also a nice reward for everyone connected with the club. We’ve got plenty of work to do before then, but it’s a game we’re all looking forward to.
Meanwhile in the FA Trophy, Ashington have received a bye in the qualifying round and will face West Auckland Town in the first qualifying round. The County Durham side were promoted into Ashington’s league – the NPL East Division – after winning the play offs in the ENL at the end of last season.