Dom Roma warns young Basford United players cannot be overawed in FA Trophy tie against Chesterfield

One of Basford United's most experienced players says his younger team-mates can't be '˜overawed' by the Proact crowd in Saturday's FA Trophy tie.

Defender Dom Roma, who misses the game against Chesterfield through suspension, believes the game is an opportunity for the Basford squad, who sit sixth in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League.

“At the moment we are in a good run of form, we’ve only lost one league game in the last 10,” said Roma, who began his career at Sheffield United.

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The 33-year-old, who counts Boston, Hinckley, Harrogate and Gainsborough among his former clubs, is one of a number of Basford players with Football League appearances.

Striker Liam Hearn played in League Two for Mansfield, while keeper Saul Deeney, winger James Reid and attacking midfielder Matt Thornhill have Championship experience.

“We’ve got an experienced team with a few young lads in there,” he said.

“There’s myself, Matty Thornhill, James Reid, Liam Hearn, Saul Deeney at the club who are experienced and try to pass that on to the younger lads.”

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When the draw was made, it went down well in the Basford changing room, because they’ll be facing players who ply their trade two divisions further up the pyramid.

“The reaction was good,” said Roma.

“It gives the lads chance too test themselves at against higher opposition.”

He might not be able to contribute on the pitch, but Roma hopes his younger team-mates will benefit from his advice before they step onto itpitch.

“Just enjoy the game,” he said.

“Don’t be overawed by a big crowd and do the basic things well until you settle into the game.”

Basford are managed by former Stoke striker Martin Carruthers.