Coventry Sphinx v Salford City
The FA Carlsberg Vase
Fourth Round Proper
Saturday 19 January 2008

Coventry Sphinx are preparing for their most important and prestigious game of the season when they entertain Salford City in the Fourth Round of The FA Carlsberg Vase.

Having comprehensively beaten fellow Midland Alliance side Oldbury United 4-0 in the last round, confidence is high that Paul Charnley’s young side can continue their cup exploits against their high flying North West Counties opponents and edge ever closer to their dream of reaching the Final at Wembley Stadium in May.

"Everyone is buzzing at the moment," said manager Paul Charnley (pictured). "The players are really excited by the prospect of progressing to the last 16 for the very first time.

"It’s great for the club and I know the prize money received so far has gone a long way to keeping the club afloat this season. It’s a welcome distraction from the pressures of the league programme and we have saved some of our best performances for the FA Vase."

Charnley insists his side will be ready for their Salford test.

"We have had Salford watched a couple of times and they are certainly a very good side so we will prepare as thoroughly as possible as it means so much if we can progress," he added.

Coventry Sphinx have never reached this far in the competition but club vice chairman Neil Long says the players are not content quite yet.

"The players have been outstanding in the Vase this year and they are determined to keep enjoying the cup run," said Long. "You just never know what might happen if they continue to play with confidence and that little bit of luck comes our way."

Coventry Sphinx enjoyed a lengthy run in last season's FA Youth Cup before losing to Nottingham Forest. Click here to see video highlights from that game.