Hyde United manager aiming big ahead of FA Cup match

Northern Premier League Division North side Hyde United will face League One team MK Dons in the first round of the FA Cup.

Hyde, who are managed by Darren Kelly are playing in the eighth tier of the English football pyramid and have been drawn an exciting home tie against MK Dons, who play five divisions above the Greater Manchester club.

The game against The Dons will be their fourth appearance in the proper rounds, after being founded in 1919.

Hyde United were delighted to draw League One side MK Dons in the first round of the FA Cup!

Watch: https://t.co/pepHL4thx2 pic.twitter.com/zuxXstIcBl

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) October 16, 2017

Hyde United are currently 7th in the Evostik Northern Premier League. To reach the FA Cup first round they had to go through four qualifying rounds and a preliminary round back in August.

They eliminated teams such as Congleton Town, Kendal Town, Warrington Town, Boston United and finally defeating Scarborough Athletic, 2-0 on Saturday to reach the cup draw last night.

Hyde United manager Darren Kelly said: “The aim always was trying to get a good side at home and hope it will be sent on TV, and when MK Dons were pulled out of the hat the players were absolutely delighted.

“The club’s absolutely delighted as well, and we’re looking forward to welcome a challenge.”

Questioned about the possibilities of beating the opponent five divisions higher, Kelly was optimistic:

“When the players cross that white line, I want them to express themselves and do the best they can. I don’t want to put them under pressure or anything, but I want them to believe in the abilities that they have.

“They’ve shown that especially at home, and we believe we can beat anybody on the day. After all, that’s what the FA cup’s about.

“There’s no reason why we can’t progress, I do believe that. They’re not built to make that long journey and play on our 3G pitch. Hopefully we can be the giant killers this round.”