Having his team focused on the job in hand rather than having one eye on Monday's first round draw were David Holdsworth's sentiments ahead of Saturday's encounter with Altrincham in the FA Cup 4^th Qualifying Round.

And it's the manager's firm belief that the temptation for his players to revel in the magic and romance of the famous old cup should be set aside this weekend and not become a distraction if they are to progress in to the next round.

"You've got to manage the occasion but also play the game. The occasion is for the fans but the players must play the game," he said.

"Indeed the fans will play a huge part in this occasion and will want to see us in the hat come Monday."

Rather than get carried away by tradition and prospects of a mouth-watering tie in the future, the team will stay disciplined and not underestimate the opposition. This will be particularly important if we are to avoid another hot-tempered match following our spectacle at Moss Lane two weeks ago.

Although we ran out 2-1 winners, the game will be remembered as an ill-tempered, fiery affair marred by the sending off of two Alty players for violent conduct and dissent.

"I don't care what happened before, what happened has gone. Emotions do sometimes get the better of you but I believe on our own patch we can be successful so long as we manage the game and avoid any needless reaction to what happened last time," he added.

Despite the call on his players to remain focused, the gaffer can recall some fond memories of his own of playing in the FA Cup including marking his twin brother Dean when Watford were drawn against Wimbledon in the 3^rd round in 1996.

He added: "I have a clear memory of playing with my brother Dean. It was a weird occasion because the draw was made and Wimbledon and Watford had been picked out as the last two balls.

"We drew the first game 1-1 but lost the replay. Dean didn't play in the replay - I don't know whether he was dropped because I played so well against him in the home game.

"I think it was a hard one for my mum who was telling me not to kick him too much. But Dean was doing well for himself and built himself a reputation as a decent goal scorer.

"Playing with your brother in an FA Cup tie is a unique experience and just goes to show that the FA Cup is always good and can throw up these kinds of challenges."

Holdsworth also paid tribute to former Mansfield Town assistant manager John Jarman who will be fondly remembered for his role in the 'glory years' promotions of the 1980s and sadly passed away recently aged 78.

He said:  "It is sad news that John Jarman has passed away. We would like to send our condolences to the family.

"I understand he was a man of great knowledge and ability and once again our sympathies go to his family."