By JAMES SPENCER

 

STANWAY Rovers boss Danny Slatter insists he is fully focused on his side's league exploits - despite the economic benefits of an FA Cup run.

After starting the season with a stunning five-match winning streak, The Hawthorns outfit are preparing for a preliminary round tie at Tilbury tomorrow.

A win would secure the club at least £6,640, with the possibility of earning more if they progress into a first-round qualifier.

“The prize money is good," said Slatter.

"Everyone likes a bit of money that they didn’t know they were going to have.

"But the club doesn’t take that into the budget for the season. It’s an extra bonus.”

The Stanway manager has refused to put pressure on his side but is adamant they will fight on all fronts.

“We’re not going there just to play second fiddle to Tilbury," he added.

"We want to go as far as we can in all cup competitions but, first and foremost, our bread and butter is the league.”

Slatter is delighted by the way his new-look side has quickly gelled to begin the season brightly - culminating with Wednesday's amazing 9-1 victory at Long Melford.

“At the minute, it’s a great start," he said.

"Obviously we've had four wins out of four in the league and won in the FA Cup.

"It’s been very encouraging as we’ve only been together about six weeks as we completely changed the squad.

"The new lads have come in and blended well.

"They've hit it off so I’m very pleased with them.”

Slatter also believes the younger players at the club may have a vital role to play in Stanway's season.

“We have a host of good youngsters coming through at the club now," he said.

"We have the under-18s, the reserves and some very good talent coming through that I’m dipping in and out of to give them vital first-team experience.

"In the last FA Cup game against Hullbridge, we had four under-17 lads on the bench. I think that bodes well for the club.

“As for the players that came in, the one thing I’m big on is having a good team spirit and togetherness.

"Throughout the season, team spirit gets you so many points alone without even kicking a ball.

"There’s not one bad egg in this dressing room. I certainly won’t entertain that.

"Everyone is on the same page and we’re doing well.”

This season marks the club’s return to the Thurlow Nunn League after last term’s experience in the Essex Senior League.

Slatter is pleased the club have settled back into the premier division and believes it offers significant rewards.

"The Thurlow Nunn League is a much better but tougher league," he said.

"There are more local derbies for Stanway, which is only beneficial for the club and obviously the fans.

"Everyone likes a derby.

"The standard of football in the Thurlow Nunn League and the general quality of pitches is so much better.”