Elliott warns Boston United of Fylde threats ahead of FA Trophy clash

Craig Elliott expects AFC Fylde to bring a strong side for Saturday’s FA Trophy clash.

The two National League North promotion hopefuls will meet in round three at the Jakemans Community Stadium on Saturday (KO 3pm).

There can often be something of a team selection guessing game when sides with league ambitions meet in knockout competitions.

Indeed, the Coasters rested first team regulars for Tuesday’s 4-1 second round win at Curzon Ashton, with Elliott making six changes to face Evesham 24 hours earlier.

However, the Pilgrims boss knows Fylde have quality throughout their squad.

“They made quite a few changes, so it's very difficult to read what sort of team they'll put out really,” he said.

“Even though they changed their side they still had a lot of good players.

“They'll come with a strong team, there's no midweek game and they rested players for the last round, so I imagine they'll be strong and wanting to get into the next round.”

The two rivals met at Mill Farm last month, the Coasters coming from behind to win 2-1.

“It'll be a tough game. We played them not long ago and it was a good game, two good teams,” Elliott added.

“We're at home and that's the main thing, I think, in this round.

The Trophy has already thrown up a few surprises with Kidderminster Harriers losing 1-0 at Stamford and Ashton United knocking York City out on penalties.

“It makes our result look even better as, if you're not playing well or taking your chances, you will get beaten,” Elliott warned.

“It puts it all in context.”

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