The Trophy hunters

Stevenage Boro boss Mark Stimson is expecting a Battle Royal against his former club this Saturday in the semi-final second leg of the FA Carlsberg Trophy.

Boro are a goal ahead at the halfway stage after Santos Gaia's header at Grays Athletic on Saturday.

But Stimson, bidding to win a hat-trick of FA Trophies as a manager and a fourth in total, is aware of the challenge ahead.

"We've got the slight advantage but they're the holders and it's the biggest thing for Grays," said Stimson.

"I won it with Grays for the last two seasons and they're not going to give it up without a real fight.

"We want to create more chances then we did last Saturday, that's for sure."

Gaia is now starting a three-game suspension for being red carded in Tuesday night's 3-1 dramatic home win over bottom side Southport.

Paul Hakim and Damian Batt are cup tied.

Adam Miller and Steve Guppy are continuing their rehabilitation from injury.

The big games are coming thick and fast as Boro visit league leaders Dagenham and Redbridge in the Nationwide Conference on Tuesday night.

Stimson added: "Tuesday is another massive game against the team which looks likely to win our league.

"I will put out my strongest side in this game, rather than the Trophy game.

"People will think I'm mad as we're just one game from Wembley - and nobody wants to get there more than me - but the league has to be our priority for the rest of the season."

* Away goals do not count on Saturday with the game entering extra-time if the aggregate scores are level. A penalty shoot-out will then determine the winners if required.

Conference rivals Kidderminster Harriers will look to defend a 2-0 lead at Northwich Victoria in the other semi-final.

Ticket details

Seats: £14 adults or £11 concessions

Terrace: £11 adults or £9 concessions or £7 juniors (under-16s)

Call 01438 223223 or just turn up on Saturday!