CHAIRMAN Anthony Hampson says the financial rewards from an FA Cup run will help Worcester City manager Carl Heeley keep his squad together.

City take on Midland Alliance minnows Coventry Sphinx in the second qualifying round at Aggborough tomorrow (3pm) with £4,500 going to the winners.

That rises to £7,500 in the next round and £12,500 in the final qualifying stage before the first round proper, when Football League clubs enter the competition.

Worcester have been working under tight financial constraints since their move to Kidderminster from St George’s Lane and Heeley’s budget was cut.

The club generated £50,000 in season ticket sales and have topped up their bank balance with the gold bond weekly lottery.

While Hampson says the Blue and Whites are keeping their heads above water, he realises the importance of winning this weekend.

The Worcester chief said: “Day-to-day, the club is on an even keel with particular emphasis on increased revenue from the gold bond competition which has proved a hit with the supporters in and around our catchment area.

“Obviously, a cup run would be welcome. Any additional income at this stage of the season would boost the feel-good factor now running through the club and help our manager retain and strengthen the squad should quality players from other clubs make themselves available.”

Heeley added: “It’s massively important to the club with the financial rewards but also important to myself and the players because it’s an opportunity for us to get a little bit of limelight.”

Despite being unable to splash the cash, the Worcester boss has still managed to bring in the likes of former Walsall captain Richard Taundry and experienced central defender Exodus Geohaghon.

Midfielder Phil Trainer has also joined on a month’s loan from Nuneaton, while keeper Jose Veiga came in from Tamworth.

Trainer should also be available for the cup clash as parent club Nuneaton appear happy to let him feature.

The 32-year-old, who would become cup-tied if involved, has been on the fringes at Liberty Way and would only be denied permission to play if Nuneaton pick up any last-minute injuries.

Should a replay be needed against Coventry, it would take place on Monday at Sphinx Drive.