The magic of the FA Cup returns to the Young Guns Arena!

Cup football returns this weekend as we welcome Glossop North End to the club, with a place in the next round up for grabs and plenty at stake for both sides. I caught up with
Taddy Albion's manager Ryan Qualter this week who knows exactly what makes knockout football so special, having enjoyed several memorable cup runs throughout his career. Reflecting on those experiences, he recalled two occasions that have stayed with him.

Here are his thoughts going into tomorrow's cup tie:

"I've been lucky enough to enjoy some good cup runs over the years, and they're always extra special in this competition. The two that stand out are when we played Mansfield at Shaw Lane, live on BT Sport in the First Round Proper, and, more recently, when I was at Scarborough. The game against Forest Green in front of the home fans at Scarborough was a very special occasion."

While cup competitions often bring added pressure and different challenges, the manager insists his side's preparation has remained consistent throughout the week.

"As both a player and a manager, I think cup competitions always bring that extra bit of pressure because of the different logistics and permutations that come with them. There are many reasons why a cup game can be different, but as a group we prepare in exactly the same way as we do for every match. We do our homework, train accordingly, and make sure we're ready. There's always an extra buzz around cup ties, and I think most players enjoy that."

A positive cup run can provide valuable momentum as well as significant rewards for non-league clubs, but the focus remains firmly on maintaining standards and sticking to the team's principles.

"Winning football matches builds momentum, regardless of the competition. We all know what a good cup run can provide for a non-league club, and that's a huge motivation. For us, it's about sticking to our principles. Winning creates good habits, both individually and collectively, and that's something we want to continue building."

Standing in the way are a Glossop side who have started the season strongly, and the manager is expecting a tough game of footy.

"Glossop have made a great start to the season. They're a good side, very competitive, and it'll be a tough game. It's one we've prepared thoroughly for and we've selected a group we believe is ready to play the way we want to at home."

Despite not collecting as many league points as they would have hoped in the opening weeks, Ryan is very pleased with the response from his squad and believes performances are heading in the right direction.

"The lads have reacted really well since the opening game of the season. We maybe haven't picked up as many points as we would have liked, but we've started to build a run together, including the friendly on Tuesday night. The players have prepared properly, as they always do. One thing you can never question with this group is their commitment and application. We've also been pleased to add to the squad, and those new players have brought extra quality to an already strong group."

With the excitement of FA cup football returning and home support getting behind the Brewers as they always do, the stage is set for an entertaining afternoon of football at the Young Guns Arena.