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Manager Paul Phillips reacts to Emirates FA Cup draw & more

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Manager Paul Phillips reacts to Emirates FA Cup draw & more

Matlock Town will face a familiar face in the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup, the draw being released on Monday lunchtime.

They have been drawn away to United Counties League Premier Division Quorn, managed by ex Gladiators midfielder Cleveland Taylor.

Quorn reached this stage with a 2-0 home win over NCEL Premier Division outfit Barton Town Old Boys while the Gladiators narrowly beat OJM Black Country Rangers by a solitary 12th minute header from defender Ryan Qualter.

“It’s like Saturday, a potential banana skin against a team from a lower league, it’s away on an artificial surface. We’ll watch them and do our homework. It’s a winnable game but we have to be on our guard and do the right things, something we didn’t do on Saturday for it’ll be their cup final” said Matlock boss Paul Phillips.

The tie will be played on Tuesday 22 September with a 7.45 pm kick off.w

Phillips is working hard to strengthen his squad this week ahead of the league opener at Bamber Bridge on Saturday. He is hoping to add another striker and midfielder.

“I’m workjing twenty four seven along with my management team to bring in the two players we need from the next level” Phillipsd added.

“If we get them it’ll be a big statement for this club.”

Meanwhile this Tuesday night’s scheduled home friendly with Chesterfield was called off over the weekend when news came through that a senior member of the Spireites backroom staff had tested positive for Covid-19.

“It’s a big disappointment but naturally our thoughts are with the person concerned and his friends and family, we wish him a speedy recovery” said a Matlock spokesman.

The clubs will be in discussion soon to try and find a replacement date for the game.

Ian Richardson