Hartelpool United manager Dave Challinor targets more FA Trophy success ahead of Harrogate Town clash

Pools face a difficult challenge of facing National League play-off challengers Harrogate Town in the first round at the CNG Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

The tie will be settled on the day and will go to extra-time if the score is level after 90-minutes.

And while the Trophy isn’t quite as glamorous or financially rewarding as the FA Cup, former AFC Fylde boss Challinor just wants to keep the momentum going following Tuesday night’s win over Exeter City.

“We look ahead to the Harrogate game where we may choose to mix things around as we’ll see how to tackle the 3G pitch,” Challinor said.

“It’s another opportunity for us and I can say from last season that going to Wembley and being able to lift the FA Trophy was a big highlight for me and as the competition progresses it becomes more serious.

“We’ve got two FA competitions in the space of four days and we’ve manage to get through in one and we’ll look to do well again on Saturday.

“It’s an important competition in my eyes and it’s our best chance of getting to Wembley, five wins and you’re there and for a club like us with our supporters which would be an unbelievable experience.

“We want to progress in the competition but the league is where we need to continue to build so we’re fighting for a place in the play-offs.”