Chris Peel believes the Chasetown FC players will go into their FA Trophy quarter-final clash with Mansfield Town with nothing to fear.

The Scholars will bid to move a step closer to a Wembley final when they entertain the Stags tomorrow (February 26).

But  despite a host of off the field problems, the former Football League club will start the game as favourites.

Chris Peel with Chasetown FC team-mate Richard Davies. Pic: Dave Birt
Chris Peel with Chasetown FC team-mate Richard Davies. Pic: Dave Birt

However, the midfielder feels Chasetown have more than enough to upset the odds once more. He told The Lichfield Blog:

“We aren’t afraid of Mansfield, we know we can beat them. However, we do respect the fact they’re a good side and we will have to play well to get a result. The gaffer has been drumming that ‘no fear’ attitude into us all week, so all the players are, of course, buzzing!

“We’ve all been concentrating on the recent league games, but I’d be a liar if I said the Mansfield game hasn’t been in all of our minds for a couple of weeks now.

“I’ve played a number of times in the FA Youth Cup with my former club Crewe Alexandra but I’d say this is definately the biggest game of my career. I can’t wait for it.”

The Scholars will be without midfielder Dave Egan, while striker Gary Birch faces a race against time to be fit for the game.

And while Peel admits that injuries to key players is a blow, he believes that Charlie Blakemore’s squad has enough depth to fill the void. He added:

“Those players are massive for us – they’re the heartbeat of the team. However,we have a great squad at Chasetown and these are the times where everyone needs to stand up and be counted. I believe we can do that.”

Chasetown versus Mansfield kicks off at 3pm at the Scholars Ground, with supporters being reminded that entry will be by pre-purchased ticket only. For information, call 01543 682222.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.