Wealdstone face Worthing in the FA Cup fourth qualifying round this Saturday, looking to revive their season after a punishing league defeat. The match at Grosvenor Vale kicks off at 3pm, with the winners progressing to Monday's first round proper draw.
Gary Waddock's side were thrashed 6-0 at home by Yeovil Town last weekend, a result that saw goalkeeper Baptiste and defender Aidan Francis-Clarke sent off. That heavy loss leaves Wealdstone 19th in the National League table with 12 points from 13 games, hovering just above the relegation places on goal difference. Their recent form shows one win in their last five league outings.
Defensive crisis for Waddock
Waddock will be without his two most valued defensive assets for the cup tie due to suspension. The 6-0 defeat to Yeovil typified a recurring issue with ill-discipline for the Stones, who have struggled to string positive results together. They have conceded 24 goals in the league this season.
In contrast, visitors Worthing arrive in strong form, sitting fifth in the National League South. They beat Solihull Moors 5-0 last weekend and are looking to spark another unbeaten streak. Worthing manager Adam Hinshelwood reported a clean bill of health in his pre-match interview. "Adam Hinshelwood reported a clean bill of health in his pre-match interview in the lead-up to the FA Cup tie," he said.
A familiar managerial face
The tie has a personal touch, with a special relationship between the two managers. Waddock signed Hinshelwood during his time at Wycombe Wanderers and Aldershot Town, later naming him captain at both clubs. Waddock, who took his first permanent managerial role in nearly seven years when he joined Wealdstone in February, has a contract running until the summer of 2028.
Wealdstone will hope striker Fejiri Okenabirhie, the 30-year-old recruited after two years in Egypt, can provide a threat. He assisted Maher's goal in the 2-1 loss at Barrow earlier this month.
Worthing are fast-tracked to this final qualifying round due to their National League status. A club statement outlined their ambition: "Fast tracked to the final qualifying round due to their status as a National League outfit, the Reds are looking to place their name in the hat for Monday’s First Round draw with a victory over Wealdstone tomorrow afternoon." If the match is level after 90 minutes, a replay will be held on Tuesday night at Worthing's Sussex Transport Community Stadium.
