Ross Hannah insists the Chester FC squad are ‘fully aware’ of the extra importance of the FA Trophy this season given the disappointing performances in both the league and FA Cup.
Hannah reached the final with Grimsby Town in 2013 when the Mariners lost on penalties to Wrexham with now teammate Johnny Hunt scoring the winning spot-kick.
The 29-year-old striker knows how special a trip to Wembley is for fans and success in the competition would lift the mood among supporters, who are worried over the side’s recent form.
Read: Introducing FA Trophy opponents Hungerford Town
Hannah said: "We’re fully aware of its importance. We were disappointed with our FA Cup exit and our performance that day so hopefully we can repay that with an FA Trophy run.
"I’ve been lucky enough to play in the final so I know what it’s all about. It would be brilliant to go all the way but there’s a lot of hard work ahead of us before that."
How will the Blues get on against Hungerford Town?
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Hannah scored both goals in the 2-0 first round win at AFC Telford Untied and Chester host Hungerford Town from the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division on Saturday with the winners going through to the last 16 (3pm).
Read: Ross Hannah revelling in 'new lease of life' with Blues
Ryan Astles must wait for his debut as the defender is cup-tied but Burnley loanee Jason Gilchrist, who featured as a substitute in the weekend’s 3-1 loss at Aldershot Town, should be involved again while John Rooney could return having scored Chester’s goal from the bench.
The visit of Hungerford marks the final game of Danny Hattersley’s loan period from FC Halifax Town and manager Steve Burr has hinted the result will determine the forward’s future.
Read: Reduced admission for FA Trophy clash with Hungerford Town
Hattersley has failed to find the net in seven appearances but Hannah believes the 23-year-old has been a factor in his excellent form.
"Before Hatts came in I was playing up front on my own and there are certain games where you need more of a targetman up there, especially at this time of year where the pitches start to change," said Hannah.
"Hatts has come in and been a good foil for me. He’s won a lot of things in the air and it’s been a different role, more of a role I’ve been used to playing with a big man so I’d say he’s definitely helped me."
The club will be broadcasting live commentary of Saturday’s match in partnership with community radio station Flipside from 2.30pm.
