WEYMOUTH will exercise caution with Hastings United’s “attacking outlets” in their FA Trophy third qualifying round clash at the Bob Lucas Stadium tomorrow (3pm), according to boss Mark Molesley.
The Terras, who received a bye to the last qualifying round due to their National League South status, have had the eighth-tier Arrows scouted in preparation for the tie.
And Molesley is affording Hastings the respect they deserve – the Sussex side currently occupying second in the Isthmian League South East Division.
“We had them watched on Saturday and they’re a very good team,” Molesley said.
“We’re expecting a tough game, they’re another good footballing side, a bit like Billericay. They’ve got some really good attacking outlets, a lot of pace out wide.”
Last season, Weymouth exited the FA Trophy at the second-round stage having been shocked 3-1 by eighth-tier Ramsbottom United in a replay following a 2-2 draw.
“That’s a stark reminder – there’s no easy game in football,” Molesley insisted.
“That’s what makes these games so exciting. We would fancy our chances against a higher team, just like Hastings will as well.
“They’re riding high, they’re full of confidence, they’re (second) in their league, they’re free-scoring so we’ve got a really difficult game on our hands.
“We’re definitely putting our best foot forward to try and progress in the competition. It’s one we want to do well in.”
Sam Sherring, Andy Robinson and Callum Buckley are all back in training with physio Ben Hayes as a return to match action nears.
Ben Thomson will also be assessed after sustaining muscle tightness in the 1-1 draw at Billericay on Tuesday.
The winners of the tie will take home £3,750 with the losers pocketing £1,250.
