JAMIE Vermiglio is expecting to see a buoyant capacity crowd at Victory Park to help drive his Chorley team in to the first round of the FA Cup when they face Barrow tomorrow.
The Magpies’ manager admits the league is the main priority but knows the finances that come with a good run in the FA Cup can be massive for the club.
The National League North table toppers are looking to repeat what they did last season by booking a date with a Football League side - a year ago they secured a home tie against neighbours Fleetwood that was shown live on BT Sport.
“We’re averaging 1,500 fans at home this season so for this game we’re looking to have at least 2,000 on Saturday,” said Vermiglio who believes playing in the FA Cup is a great occasion and one players always look forward to.
“When I played myself, I could feel it. The hairs on the back of your neck stand up. Having the fans supporting the team is a real advantage, especially if you’re behind.”
Although Vermiglio wasn’t manager of the club when Chorley were narrowly beaten by Fleetwood last season, he was No.2 to Matt Jansen and understands what the cup means to the club both on and off the pitch.
Vermiglio added: “When you think about the FA Cup, you think about the finances that come with it. For a club like us, it can be huge.
“It’s also great for nostalgia, there’s lots of history that comes with the cup and we want to be a part of it.
“To be honest with you I’d rather this match was in the league so we could get three more points on the board. The league is the main priority because we want to get promoted, we’re not going to win the FA Cup but we could win the league.”
Barrow currently sit 13th in the National League and come in to tomorrow’s match on the back of a defeat but Vermiglio knows it will be a tough test against a side one division above.
He added: “Barrow play some of the best football in the league above, from what I’ve seen anyway.
“They’ll bring a few fans as they have a good following.”
Chorley have played 12 league games, winning nine and drawing three and Vermiglio admits that confidence could help tomorrow.
“It’s good to come in to this game with the five-point cushion we have at the top of the league, it gives us confidence to go out and perform like we have been doing all season,” he added.
The Magpies could come up against Stanley loanee Erico Sousa, who joined Barrow on a one month loan last week and scored on his debut against Bromley.
Meanwhile, Chorley were in FA Youth Cup action on Wednesday away at South Shields.
The Magpies pushed their opponents all the way but lost 3-2 with Taylor Brickell scoring both goals for Declan Williams’ team.
Elsewhere tomorrow in the Evo Stik West, 15th placed Clitheroe host 13th placed Newcastle Town at Shawbridge.
Ninth placed Colne travel to Market Drayton Town knowing a win could take them in to the top three if other results go their way.
Ramsbottom are at home to struggling Glossop North End.
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