HEDNESFORD Town player-manager Chris Brindley is not prepared to show any sympathy to Worcester City when the two sides clash at Keys Park on Saturday in the third round of the FA Trophy.

The Pitmen are the competition's current holders following a staggering 2003/04 campaign that culminated in a memorable 3-2 final win over Nationwide Conference club Canvey Island at Villa Park.

Left-back Les Hines scored a cracking free-kick in the final, which proved to be his last game for the Pitmen before joining City in the summer, and defender Brindley grabbed the late winning goal.

Brindley, the former Kidderminster Harriers defender, is not expecting Southern Premier League outfit Town to retain the Trophy after losing the majority of the side that booked themselves into the history books last May.

But the publican is quietly confident of overcoming City, who have suffered a dip in form.

Brindley said: "It's a big game for us. I've seen Worcester a couple of times this season and they are a good side.

"It's an even game and I don't think there are any favourites here. On neutral ground, you would favour Worcester but not necessarily at our place. We fancy ourselves to do well.

"We want a decent run in the Trophy but there's a bit more pressure on us this year being holders than in years gone by.

"The likelihood of winning it again are next to nothing. The fans are not expecting us to retain it.

"What happened in the Trophy last season was great but it did have a huge effect on our league form. It cost us relegation and our priority this season is to get to where Worcester are in Nationwide North.

"I've got a lot of respect for Worcester and their manager. Whenever we play them we expect a tough game. It should be a very close game to call."

Brindley recognises that City are not in the best of touch but points out that the St George's Lane club are boxed in a fiercely competitive league.

He added: "I think Worcester are in a very tough league. I've spoken to John Barton a few times and I know he gets a bit of stick from spectators, but it's really tough.

"It's one of those that if you win two or three games on the trot, you are in the play-offs, but if you lose two or three then you are quickly looking over your shoulder."

City's reserves drew 3-3 at Bromsgrove Rovers last night in a Central Conference League Cup fixture.