[spireitematt]

Is losing to Watford in the 3rd round a blessing in disguise? If we had got a draw then it would have meant a replay and another extra game. We've got Gateshead at home on Wednesday and then back in cup action at the weekend against Welling in the FA Trophy, where I guess we will send out a mixture of youth players and rotational first teamers.

We had a real chance to get into the 4th round of the cup but I think getting back into the Football League has to be a main priority. We might have lost to Watford in the cup but Bromley could only muster a draw against our bogey team Maidenhead. We are still 6pts clear of Bromley with a few games in hand and if we win them then it would mean the lead over Bromley will be stretched.

The game against Gateshead on Wednesday will be a complete different team because they've lost there keeper, Archie Mair (remember him? Notts saviour in the playoff final) who has been recalled by Norwich to be sent on loan to Morecambe. They also have several players out injured and one of there player's has been recalled from Blyth Spartans to offer cover. There former keeper James Montgomery (Former Spireite as well) is not that far away playing for Spennymoor Town, so wouldn't surprise me if they end up signing him for his 3rd spell.