Monday, 8th September 2008

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- Andy Parker – Burton Mail

19th January 1987
The road to Wembley could be taking a diversion down Memory Lane for Gresley Rovers boss Frank Northwood.

For yesterday’s Fifth Round draw linked the veteran supremo with a man who once played a key role in one of Northwood’s most successful teams.

Ken Jones, now manager of Beazer HomesMidlands Division Bridgnorth Town, was sweeper with Four Ashes, the Wolverhampton Sunday side managed by Northwood for 14 years which “won everything there was to win” including the prestigious FA Sunday Cup.

But if Northwood and his former protégé are to be reunited Bridgnorth must first win their replay against Huddersfield-based Northern Counties East outfit Emley, who led 3-1 at one stage in Saturday’s Fourth Round tie at Bridgnorth before being held to a 3-3 draw after extra time.

The Gresley chief, however, is unconcerned about who his opponents will be.

“The main thing is that we’re drawn at home, and that’s great for the club and its supporters,” Northwood said after his team had been first out of the hat in yesterday’s last 16 draw at Lancaster Gate. “I suppose Emley must be favourites to win the tie now they’ve got a replay, and I must confess I know nothing about them. But I know a lot about Bridgnorth and their manager. They’re a good side and Jonesy is a fitness fanatic who won the West Midlands League twice on the trot as manager of Shifnal Town.”

Northwood admitted his relief at avoiding a local derby clash with either Tamworth or Atherstone.

“I’d like to think we could go all the way and meet Tamworth at Wembley. But it’s just a dream at the moment and a long, long way away.”

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