S8 Ep26: 16th February 2024 - Bishops Stortford, The FA Trophy / Vase 5th Rd & QF

Just the one club guest this week so a slightly abbreviated show but an important insight nonetheless.

With some of the Fifth Round FA Trophy ties still to be played due to weather postponements, we speak to a manager who is probably putting more on the chance for Wembley than any other club still in the competition. Bishops Stortford owner and manager Steve Smith was last with us celebrating his side’s romp of the IShtmian Premier Division. As he tells us he still can’t come to terms with the decision - even post-appeal - to place his side in the National North and not the South this season. That has meant additional travel, additional costs and pretty much an entire new squad. Whilst competitive in most games it hasn’t worked out this term for the Blues who are rock bottom of the Step 2 Division and need to double their current points even to get level the club currently in safety. Whilst he’s not given up all hope, Smith is realistic enough to understand the FA Trophy and their great run already is probably where his and his side’s hope is better pinned. Coalville Town - under new management - and from a level below stand now between them and progression into the Quarter Finals to meet Macclesfield. 

Rounding up the week’s news including his presence at the FA Trophy and Vase draws earlier this week, Executive Editor at The Non League Paper Jon Couch is on hand with his expert insight into the draw, the talking points of the week and those managerial moves.