Friends in high places

Coventry Sphinx have some friends in high places.

After using West Ham's training ground before seeing off Stanway Rovers in the last round, the Sphinx have been preparing for their Sixth Round clash against Kirkham & Wesham at Manchester United's Littleton Road facility.

The Midland Alliance League side are relishing the opportunity.

"The mood's great," said manager Paul Charnley. "The lads can't wait to get going.

"As amateur players this sort of thing might only happen once in their careers so they know they've got to make the most of it."

Charnley knows how important this competition is to a club like his.

"We pay no wages, have no budget and no shirt sponsor," he said. "The money we've raised through The FA Vase has probably kept the club going.

"It's just surreal. At the start of the season you don't think you can get past the first couple of rounds, but then you begin to think there's no reason you can't do this. We're confident we can beat anyone at our level."

Tom Bates hit the winner against Stanway but he faces a late fitness test ahead of Saturday's game.

"He can run and sprint but is struggling to strike the ball," said Charnley.

Sphinx's opponents on Saturday are equally surprised to still be in the competition. Kirkham are making their debut in The Vase this year but have already made an impression.

The Vodkat League division two outfit have already won two FA Team of the Round awards and defeated second favourites Crowborough Athletic out in the last sixteen.

"From starting out in a competition we've never entered before we've now got an opportunity to play at Wembley," said Manager Mick Fuller. "With a bit of luck and the right draw it is possible."