Berkhamsted manager Chris Devane has barred his squad from the distraction of watching the FA Cup second round draw before their historic first round encounter against Plymouth Parkway. The seventh-tier Hertfordshire outfit are scheduled to play the final tie of the round on Monday at 19:30, with the draw taking place immediately ahead of kick-off. Both Southern League Premier Division South sides are competing at this stage of the tournament for the first time in their history, with the match being broadcast to an international television audience.
Devane wants his squad entirely focused on the fixture rather than prospective future opponents. Explaining the decision, the Comrades boss said: "I've told the players they're not allowed anywhere near it [the draw]. Someone could tell me if they want who we get. I'm not really bothered about it. It's important the players are focused on what they're there to do and that's win a football game. There's no point losing focus about who you may play if you do win, if you end up jeopardising the opportunity to win by doing so." Devane added that he instructed the players to leave press duties and television interviews to him so they can focus strictly on the game.
Berkhamsted, who were founded in 2009 following the folding of Berkhamsted Town, have enjoyed a lucrative journey to the first round proper. After overcoming Bishop's Stortford, Hendon, Redditch United, and Southend United, the non-league club have already pocketed £20,625 from the competition's prize fund. A further £47,750 is on offer for the winners of Monday's contest, while the losing side will receive £15,800. Furthermore, both clubs have banked an additional £50,000 as a result of being chosen for television coverage.
The trip to Devon has required significant commitment from Berkhamsted's part-time squad, who travelled down on Sunday and will not return until Tuesday, leading several players to take unpaid leave from their regular jobs. Looking ahead to the rare professional-style build-up, Devane told BBC Three Counties Radio: "I'm really intrigued to see how much will a proper day of rest, prep and pre-match meal actually helps them [my players]."
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