The Isuzu FA Trophy

Wilkinson's Wembley aim for Town in The Trophy

Thursday 28 Nov 2013
The FA Carlsberg Trophy First Round Proper takes place this weekend

Hungerford Town manager Bobby Wilkinson is no stranger to preparing for matches at Wembley - but now he's hoping to swap the kitbag for the dug-out with his current side.

Wilkinson has a long association with Championship side Reading, where he played as a teenager and currently works as kit man alongside his role in charge at Hungerford.

And he was involved when the Royals lost 4-2 to Swansea City beneath the Arch in the 2011 Championship play-off final.

Although his side were on the wrong end of the result that day, Wilkinson still cherishes his memories from Wembley and would love to create some more as a manager.

And ahead of his side's visit from Chesham United in The FA Trophy on Saturday, Wilkinson told TheFA.com: "Wembley is obviously a long way in the distance for a small club like Hungerford.

"Just to make the First Round Proper - and make history - I'm happy with that. But you never know, we will take each game as it comes.

 

Hungerford Town v Chesham United

The FA Carlsberg Trophy
First Round Proper
3pm, Saturday 30 November
Bulpit Lane, Hungerford
Winners receive £5000

 

 

"That trip to Wembley with Reading was a brilliant day. We went to the ground nice and early, put all the kit and boots out and got everything ready for the team.

"I went out on the pitch, had a walk around and saw everything. It was just a great experience to be part of that."

Hungerford have hit a great run of form and go into the match on the back of a 6-0 Southern League Premier Division win against Truro on Tuesday night.

But Chesham are also flying at the top of the table, with 13 wins from their 18 games this season - including a 1-0 win over Hungerford back in August.

Wilkinson added: "We did okay against Chesham, but they beat us. After that, we just regrouped and focused on what we were trying to do and we're confident now.

"They're a fantastic side and they deserve to be top of the table. They've got a good manager, a good management team, are very organised and it will be very tough for us on Saturday.

"I looked at their whole team and they're very strong all over. This is one of the hardest draws we could've got. The tie will be very, very tough but I'm looking forward to the challenge."

By FA Staff