Stafford Rangers manager Graham Deakin has attributed part of his team's successful FA Cup run to a mix of preparation and superstition, following their emphatic 5-0 victory over National League side Gateshead in a fourth qualifying round replay on Tuesday. The Step 4 club’s win secured them a high-profile encounter against League Two outfit Grimsby Town, scheduled for Sunday, November 8, with live coverage by TNT.
Stafford Rangers, who compete in the Northern Premier League (NPL) West, have demonstrated remarkable form throughout the cup campaign, previously defeating higher-ranked Step 2 Hereford and Step 3 Halesowen Town. Deakin highlighted the physical demands placed on his squad, noting the extensive travel involved, including trips covering approximately 129 kilometres to Gateshead and 130 kilometres for the home replay three days later. The team’s endurance has also contributed to an impressive league record of eight wins in ten matches.
Alongside these tangible factors, Deakin has embraced certain superstitious rituals that he believes contribute to the team's momentum. The manager described changes in his routine, such as using the same whiteboard marker following victories, altering his clothing after losses, and maintaining a consistent order when writing player names for set pieces. He candidly acknowledged that these habits have grown increasingly demanding but remain part of his efforts to influence positive outcomes.
The club’s board has supported the team’s preparation by arranging for the players to stay overnight before the upcoming match against Grimsby Town. Deakin emphasized the importance of maintaining consistent routines, citing breakfast together and pre-game analysis as crucial elements. Many players are from northern England, including Manchester and Liverpool, which the manager believes fosters cohesion within the squad. He described the previous overnight stay as beneficial for team unity and expressed appreciation for the board’s backing.
Looking ahead to the fixture at Marston Road, Deakin acknowledged Grimsby’s quality but expressed confidence in his team’s chances, especially with the prospect of a full home crowd and televised coverage adding to the occasion. He emphasized the excitement and unpredictability that the FA Cup brings and stressed the importance of a strong start to the match. “If we start well and stay in the game then we have a chance,” he said, underscoring the blend of belief and preparation that has defined Stafford Rangers’ campaign thus far.