Havant Wary Of Merthyr Town’s Challenge

Havant and Waterlooville, who play in Vanarama National League South, are wary of Merthyr Town in the FA Cup.
Lee Bradbury, the former Manchester City, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Portsmouth player who is Havant’s manager, says: “Merthyr are coming to try and cause an upset.
“They are traditionally a big club and have some good players.
“We certainly won’t be taking them lightly.
“The last thing we want is for them to take us back to their place for a replay on the plastic pitch in midweek.
“We will be going all out to win the game at the first time of asking.”
Merthyr, still smarting from their 2-0 Southern League Premier Division defeat at Basingstoke Town, are back in Hampshire looking for a cup upset.
Manager Gavin Williams and his Martyrs have a 350-miles round trip to Havant’s Westleigh Park ground.
Cameron Pring and Mo Touray, on loan from Bristol City and Newport County respectively, are both available after their parent clubs granted permission for them to play in the FA Cup.
It is a tough trip for Merthyr in the second qualifying round of the Emirates FA Cup. Havant are seventh in the National League South.
Manager Bradbury led his Havant team to the Isthmian League title last season. They have plenty of experience with James Hayter and Matt Tubbs in their forward line.
This season is the 10th anniversary of Havant’s historic run that ended in the fourth round against Liverpool at Anfield.
“Our club has always prided itself on good cup runs,’ said Bradbury. ‘There is pride in what was achieved 10 years ago and it holds a special place in Hawks’ hearts.
“It would be great to rekindle some of that love the club has for the competition. A good Cup run helps breed extra confidence and can also provide a good financial bonus.”