Billy Heath is preparing for a pivotal FA Trophy first-round clash as Mickleover Sports get set to face Alfreton Town at the Vibrant Doors Arena. Heath, the assistant manager of the Northern Premier League Division One Midlands side, previously spent more than seven years at Alfreton, where he served as manager before leaving the club 14 months ago.

The tie between Mickleover and Alfreton is notable not only for the local proximity—just 17 miles separate the clubs—but also for Heath’s former association with the Reds. During his tenure at Alfreton, Heath guided the team to two National League North play-off appearances, two Derbyshire Senior Cup victories, and a run to the FA Cup second round. He recalled his time there fondly, emphasizing the strong relationships he developed with the club’s chairman Wayne Bradley, supporters, and staff.

Despite the personal connections, Heath stressed the professional nature of the upcoming fixture. “It’ll be a normal game, it’ll be just down to business,” he said. He was clear that the match will hold the same competitive significance as any other, adding that winning would not carry additional emotional weight beyond progress in the competition.

Mickleover advanced to this stage after a penalty shootout victory over Malvern Town last month, with Heath confidently predicting a tie against Alfreton shortly after that win. He described the club’s recent FA Trophy run as energizing for the team and the fanbase, having already overcome higher-ranked opponents en route.

Heath acknowledged the challenge posed by Alfreton, who currently sit midtable in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, one tier above Mickleover. “When Alfreton have their best side out, I think they’d be a match for anybody in their league,” he said.

Before stepping into his assistant manager role this summer, Heath had worked with Mickleover as a recruitment consultant. His appointment alongside manager Gareth Holmes has drawn some surprise but has been welcomed internally. Heath brings extensive managerial experience, including notable success with North Ferriby in the FA Trophy, highlighted by a memorable penalty shootout win against Wrexham in 2015, which he considers one of his career’s best moments.

Looking ahead, Heath emphasized Mickleover’s desire to continue their run in the competition. “It’s a great competition. We’re just looking to progress to the next round. We keep going, and all we can do is see where it goes,” he said.

The match promises an intriguing contest between two Derbyshire clubs with intertwined histories as Mickleover aim to upset their local rivals and advance further in the 2026–27 FA Trophy.