DORCHESTER Town assistant boss James Wood insists the Magpies have not prioritised an FA Cup run this season, going into their first qualifying round tie at Wimborne Town tomorrow (3pm).

Glenn Howes’ men travel to New Cuthbury tomorrow for the latest renewal of their rivalry with Dorset counterparts Wimborne, who were twice beaten by Dorchester last season.

Wimborne struggled and finished bottom of the Pitching In Southern League Premier South in 2021/22 but have strengthened this summer.

James Stokoe’s men currently sit sixth after four games in Division One, while Dorchester are fifth in the division above having won four of six matches.

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Speaking to Echosport, Wood said: “It comes down to winning football matches. We haven’t prioritised any competitions or set ourselves any targets.

“What was important to the group is that we start the season well.

“Hence, the prolonged pre-season and the number of friendlies we played. We knew historically that Dorchester haven’t started well in the past.

“That was something we addressed and to us, the FA Cup is an extension to that. It’s another game early in the season that we want to do well in.

“It’s the biggest national competition for clubs at our level and there’s a bit of added spice. The Promised Land for any non-League club at our level is always the first round.

“Getting to that level and drawing one of the (National League) big boys or even one of the League clubs. That’s always the dream, that never changes.”

On meeting Dorset rivals Wimborne, Wood added: “We haven’t got those league battles to look forward to, so it puts added incentive on it.

“Like us, they’ve recruited well and it should be a really good game if you take the emotion out of it.”

Dorchester are waiting on confirmation of Ollie Griggs’ availability amid suspension, but Brad Snelling (concussion) is out. Connor Callow has joined Portland United on dual terms.