Holiday robs Bassett of talisman for tonight's cup replay (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Holiday robs Bassett of talisman for tonight's cup replay

9:48am Tuesday 18th September 2007 in Football By Gazette Sport Reporter

Manager Paul Burke is confident his Wootton Bassett side can cope with the loss of talisman Matty Bennett to claim another FA Cup scalp at Rylands Way tonight.

Bennett will be on holiday when the first qualifying round replay against Brockenhurst kicks-off, leaving Bassett undoubted underdogs against their Wessex League visitors.

Eighteen-year-old Scott Large is expected to take Bennett's place in midfield and Burke says he has every faith in the teenager.

He said: "Matty is a big loss but we've got to learn to cope with that.

"Scotty Large has been waiting in the wings for his chance and I've got no problems throwing him in.

"He's no Matty Bennett, but he's still only 18 and he has that ability to go past players.

"This is a chance for him to stake his claim and show what he can do."

Bassett under 18s captain Jonny Aitkenhead will also join the senior squad tonight as Burke looks to blood in another promising youngster.

He said: "We've got a few diamonds coming through and it's down to us to give them that chance.

"We will give it a go and what will be, will be. Regardless of the result, the players have been a credit to themselves and to this football club.

"I think we're one of just two Hellenic League teams left in the FA Cup so it would be great to go one more round."

Paul Patel (calf) is struggling and Nathan Perkins is also unavailable.

Chippenham Town are also in FA Cup action tonight as they host Beaconsfield SYCOB in a first qualifying round replay.

The two teams drew 1-1 on Saturday and Bluebirds boss Adie Mings is taking nothing for granted ahead of the return at Hardenhuish Park.

He said: "Beaconsfield impressed me with some of their passing and we're under no illusions as to how difficult it is going to be."

n The draw for the second qualifying round of the FA Cup was made yesterday.

Paul Burke's Bassett will entertain Conference South side Maidenhead, if they overcome Brockenhurst.

Chippenham Town will face Toolstation Premier Division outfit Hallen, if they can navigate past Beaconsfield, at the second attempt, tomorrow.

Corsham Town have been handed another home draw, against Bashley.

The ties are due to be played on Saturday, September 29.