Quakers are not looking for revenge
Nov 7 2009 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal
IAN Miller’s head is still feeling the effects of Darlington’s last meeting with Barnet, but manager Steve Staunton insists there will be no hangover on the field, writes STUART RAYNER.
The two sides met at Underhill a fortnight ago in a feisty League Two clash. They have been paired together in today’s FA Cup first round with centre-back Miller still missing.
The 25-year-old was concussed when he was caught by Paul Furlong’s knee in the 3-0 defeat and has been restricted to light training this week, still complaining of headaches. “The doctor had a look at him on Wednesday,” revealed Staunton. “He is still not right so we’re hoping he will be okay for when we play Burton next week.”
Former Liverpool and Aston Villa defender Staunton says his team will be out for revenge in London – but strictly within the laws of the game.
“It was a physical game at Barnet two weeks ago, but there are no scores to settle other than the 3-0 defeat,” he said.
“Football’s a man’s game, there’s too much made of any physical contact in football now.
“All we will be focussed on is trying to win the game. We will play hard but fair.
“In the position we are in any sort of winning run will do whether it is in the cup or league. We are progressing, but need to show that progress with better results.
“There’s prize money at stake in the FA Cup, but to be honest we just focus on trying to win, and don’t think about that.”
Staunton admits he is anxious to find a settled side as soon as possible, but more changes can be expected today.
Matt Plummer will continue to deputise as Steve Foster’s partner in front of former Sunderland University student Nick Liversedge in goal. But Nathan Mulligan is cup-tied having already appeared in the competition for Norton & Stockton Ancients, and former Ibiza striker Mor Diop could make his full debut. Strikers Lee Thorpe and Noel Whelan are long-term absentees.
All five of the Quakers’ on-loan players have been given permission to play in the Cup. The game will be the last of Moses Barnett’s loan from Everton, after which a decision will be made on his Neasham Road future.
