MARK Molesley has been speaking about 'the magic' of the FA Cup as his Weymouth side prepares to face Sholing later today (Saturday).

The Terras enter the competition at the second qualifying round and will be looking to 'create a fairy tale' as they look to emulate previous success' of reaching the first round of the competition - a feat last achieved in 2022.

Memorable ties have included the 2022 1-1 draw at home with AFC Wimbledon, the 2006 2-2 draw in front of BBC cameras in 2006 and a 1-1 draw to Nottingham Forest in 2005. 

The club's best run in the competition in recent memory was in 2007 when they made it to the second round but suffered defeat at the hands of Cambridge United.

Speaking on the FA Cup, Molesley said: "I can't wait, it's the magic of the FA Cup, the best competition in the world.

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"I grew up on it, reenacting it in the back garden as a kid, but we will have to work hard and fight for our place in the next round and give the competition the respect it deserves - and maybe create a fairy tale."

He added: "I told the players they are in the same competition as superstars and it can create memories for the players and the club."

"We all know what it can provide for the club and we have to aim for the stars but we must not take our eye off the ball as Sholing will thrive in this situation."

Despite coming up against opponents in a lower league, Molesley is not taking anything for granted, pointing out the Boatmen's experienced manager as a reason why the game won't be easy. 

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He added: "It will be a really tough challenge, Paul Doswell has managed more FA Cup games than anyone.

"Sholing are a really strong team and have a good squad of players, many of whom could play in our league, so it will be a tough game and we have to approach it right but we are ready for it."

Molesley will be without several players for the trip to Southampton with Ben Greenwood, Malachi Linton, Brandon Goodship, Billy Terrell and Keelan O'Connell all set to miss out through injury. 

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The Terras will also be without Gerard Benfield who is cup-tied for the game having played for Dorchester against Banbury in the previous round.

This means Will Buse will play in goal after signing a month-long loan on Friday.

There is some positive news though as Calvin Brooks, Josh McQuoid and Brooklyn Genesini are all returning to match fitness following their respective injuries.

Molesley added: "All of a sudden players are coming back and getting fitter and hopefully we can get away from the mini curse spell we have been experiencing."

Kick off at the Mortgage Decisons Stadium in Southampton is at 3pm on Saturday, September 14.