Another challenging cup tie (story posted on 2/11/01)

MAIDENHEAD United face another challenging cup tie when they travel to Northwood tomorrow (Saturday 3.11.01) in the FA Trophy.
After being drawn against, and losing to, big spending Aldershot in the FA Cup, United could have been forgiven for hoping that the FA Trophy draw would be kinder. But it was not to be, as United manager Alan Devonshire is fully aware.
"I saw Northwood a lot last season, and saw them last week also. I rate them very highly. They are particularly useful going forward – it's a tough draw for us."
It is especially so as his team will not have kicked a ball in anger for two weeks, something the former West Ham star is not happy about.
He said: "After the Hendon game when we played so well, we really wanted to keep on playing.
"You just don't need breaks like this at this level."
However the break means that United will be at full strength after a recent run of injures apart from skipper Tim Cook, and midfielder Jamie Jarvis who is suspended.
However they will now not be able to call on defender Lewis Craker and striker Darren Grieves who have left the club in search of first team football.
In particular Devonshire was sad to lose former Flackwell Heath favourite Craker, but understood his motives.
"The lad wanted first team football and he will get this at Windsor. I like him a lot and we parted on good terms. He knows that if he wants to come back, he'll be more than welcome."
Grieves, who has struggled to make a regular place his own, has joined Hemel Hempstead Town in Division 2.
On Tuesday United make the trip to Billericay in the league, and Devonshire knows his side are up against it.
"They murdered us last season, and have spent a lot of money. I'll be happy with a draw."