Kevin Wilkin knows what it is like to manage in The Buildbase FA Trophy Final and though he is dreaming of a second Wembley visit this season, concedes Brackley Town face a tall task in the last-eight against York City.
Wilkin was in charge when Wrexham lost to underdogs North Ferriby United two years ago and was relieved of his duties the following day – after the Yorkshire side came from two goals down to win on penalties.
Now at Brackley, he has steered his side serenely through the early rounds – including a handsome 4-1 success against Wealdstone to earn their quarter final spot.
Brackley have enjoyed the cup competitions this season too, with their Emirates FA Cup first round win against Gillingham generating headlines.
Their form in the National League North has suffered of late though, with Tuesday night’s 3-1 success against Gloucester City their first win since Boxing Day.
But Wilkin is confident they can give York a good game as he attempts to get back to Wembley.
He said: “I was disappointed on the day and then lost my job the next day, but I would not have changed it. I would have changed the result, but not the chance of the opportunity.
“I know what it brings and what it can bring. We are only a small market town but to be competing with some of those big boys is fantastic and hopefully we can thrive on Saturday and earn a result.
“Naturally, whether you are a professional player or non-League it does not matter, it is always a fantastic occasion to get to Wembley – it is the greatest stadium an Englishman can play in.”
Meanwhile, the Minstermen are without a win in four National League games and are in the thick of a battle against relegation.
But boss Gary Mills has brought in reinforcements in recent weeks including striker Johan ter Horst from Hull and defender Hamza Bencherif.
And Wilkin added: “We are expecting a tough time and you know when you get to this stage of the competition that it is going to be difficult.
“York have signed some high-profile players in recent weeks and the National League is a tough, competitive league and they have given themselves the best opportunity of getting out of it.”
Did you know?
Established in 1890, Brackley only reached the first round of The Emirates FA Cup for the first time in 2008-09 – where they lost 2-1 to Eastwood Town.
Buildbase FA Trophy history.
This is the furthest Brackley have ever progressed – beating their previous best of the first round which they reached five times. In contrast, York lifted The Trophy in 2012 courtesy of a 2-0 win against Newport County, and reached The Final in 2009 when they lost to Stevenage by the same score.
One to watch
Midfielder James Armson was the star of the show when Brackley dumped Gillingham out of The FA Cup in November. The 26-year-old, who had to change into his kit in his car before the match, settled the tie with a fine 20-yard strike.
The prize
The winners will move through to Monday’s semi-final draw and pocket £8,000 in prize money.
