Ramsgate manager Ady Pennock dreaming of extended FA Cup run but familiar opponents Bracknell Town stand in his way in Saturday’s first qualifying round

Manager Ady Pennock is hoping Ramsgate’s FA Cup magic will rub off on him this season.

The Rams memorably reached the second round three years ago before losing 5-0 at League 2 AFC Wimbledon.

Pennock was knocked out at the first qualifying round stage last season while in charge of Dartford - and only reached the third qualifying round in the previous campaign.

“In the last couple of years, I’ve had a rubbish time in the FA Cup, I’ll be honest with you,” stated Pennock.

“Hopefully we can change that at Ramsgate. I love it, the FA Cup, it’s the best competition in the world.

“However, I think the Premier League teams have spoiled it for everybody. It’s all about money for the big boys.

“I think if they made it into a Champions League spot for the FA Cup, the winners get a Champions League spot, you’d see a totally different competition with the so-called big teams playing their real teams instead of playing a youth team in round three or whatever they do.”

Ipswich fan Pennock points to his club’s only appearance in the FA Cup final as one of his favourite cup memories.

“I think it’s the best competition in the world in footballing terms,” he added. “I absolutely love it. I’ve got some great memories of 1978 when the Town won it 1-0, Roger Osborne scored against the Arsenal.”

Pennock didn’t admit to a wry smile when the draw for the first qualifying round paired Ramsgate with a home tie against Bracknell Town this Saturday.

Bracknell knocked Dartford out at this stage of the competition last season, so it’s a chance for Pennock to gain personal revenge against the Southern League Premier South side.

There’s little chance of inside knowledge for Pennock, though, as none of the Bracknell team that began the FA Cup win