Looking to guide Great Wakering Rovers to Isuzu FA Vase glory – Harry Talbot (Image: Nicky Hayes)
Great Wakering Rovers winger Harry Talbot is ‘relishing the opportunity’ in their historic Isuzu FA Vase semi-final tie at Worcester City this afternoon.
Marcus Bowers’ side have reached this stage of the competition for the first time in their history and if they are victors over two legs, Great Wakering will play the showpiece final at Wembley Stadium.
Talbot is looking forward to the challenge.
“I can’t wait,” he said.
“It’s one of the biggest games in the club’s history so to be part of it is special.
“It’s going to be tough as we face a worthy opponent for such an occasion but we are relishing the opportunity.”
He also adds how disappointing it was that the original first-leg tie was postponed last weekend due to a waterlogged pitch.
“It was disappointing how last weekend’s game was called off but ultimately we’ve got the opportunity to do it at a bigger and better stadium the following week.”
Great Wakering entered at the first round stage and progressed following wins over Basildon Town, Buckhurst Hill, St Neots Town, Downham Town, Fakenham Town, Whitchurch Alport, Highworth Town and Falmouth Town.
Talbot looks back on his favourite memories from the cup run so far.
“There have been some magic moments,” he reflects.
“At home to Fakenham, away at Whitchurch and Highworth were all really special.
“Obviously, the quarter-final tie against Falmouth tops it, given the occasion, scoring two and the celebrations.”
Talbot also looks at the reasons for such a successful cup run.
“I think our togetherness has allowed us to get this far,” he believes.
“We are a real team and fight for each other on the pitch.
“We’ve also got a lot of quality and wouldn’t be in the final four of this competition without it.
Their magical FA Vase run has meant their Essex Senior League campaign has taken a step back and they currently occupy 12th place following relegation from the Isthmian North Division last term.
Talbot is still aiming for promotion.
“The FA Vase has probably distracted some of us from the league,” he admitted.
“But we’ve got six to eight games in hand on teams above us so we’re confident we can get into the play-offs and achieve our original goal of promotion.”
