Barwell v Norton & Stockton
The FA Carlsberg Vase
Sixth Round Proper
3pm, Saturday 27 February
Sports Ground, Kirkby Road, Barwell FC
Winning clubs receive £5000 from The FA's prize fund
Click here for fixtures
The 'invincibles' of the Aspire Midland Football Alliance are aiming to transfer their outstanding league form into The Vase this Saturday.
Barwell are unbeaten in their division this season and they venture to new heights this weekend, as this is the first time they have reached the Quarter Final stage in The Vase.
Their manager, Marcus Law, will miss the game as he is in Cyprus on his honeymoon so a win against Norton & Stockton will undoubtedly provide the newlywed with the perfect wedding present.
Law has missed Barwell's last three fixtures but the Canaries have delivered wins in each. Chairman Dave Laing believes that is a tribute to the spirit of his squad.
"It's all based on trust," said Laing. "We have an excellent management team and if someone is away, it's never a problem.
"We are confident about winning, although we are certainly not taking anything for granted. We need to focus if we want to succeed.
"We play a good passing game. If need be, we can mix it up but we're at home and our pitch is excellent for our quick game."
Goals from Adam Cunnington (25 this season) and Kev Charley (24 this season) have helped propel Barwell into their prominent league position and Laing considers this could be a factor in Saturday's match.
"They (Cunnington and Charley) could prove the difference," he added. "Earlier on in the season we were getting goals from everywhere but they have certainly been a big influence on the team."
Laing was also full of praise for the versatile Francino Francis. The former Watford forward is also proficient at playing in defence.
"He has been a key player for us," said Laing. "Technically he is very good, as well as his physical attributes. His desire to win will be evident at the weekend."
