Banbury United FC boss Andy Whing says Puritans' FA Cup qualifying one of his 'biggest moments' in football

The Puritans' reward for coming past Bury Town in the fourth qualifying round is a home date with division-lower Isthmian League North outfit Canvey Island next month.

Banbury know progressing through that test will see them reach the second round for the first time in the club's history. That's something that is driving boss Whing after seeing the joy coming past Bury brought to everyone over the weekend.

"The cup run has been fantastic," said a delighted Whing. !It’s a great opportunity for us to get to the second round for the first time in the club’s history. I think it’s a real opportunity but they’ll probably be thinking the same as well. It’s a great opportunity for them to get in the second round proper."

Whing is frustrated that the club's 'unbelievable' fans will be unable to attend the first round tie at the Spencer Stadium.

It was announced prior to Monday's draw that supporters would not be allowed into grounds at any match in the competition's latest round because of growing coronavirus cases across the country.

Whing rated the club's FA Cup win over Bury Town as one of his greatest in football. That coming from a man who faced Arsenal in a fifth-round replay whilst a player with Leyton Orient.

And the Banbury boss admitted it's a bitter blow that those who have done so much for the club will not be able to attend such a massive occasion.

"It’s such a shame that fans won’t be there," said a disappointed Whing. "We had an unbelievable atmosphere on Saturday with the fans. It was one of the highlights of my career.

"It’s seeing what it means to the people and you’re in the hotseat as well you feel that burden a little bit. To have that taken away from us in the next game is going to be disappointing but we’ve got to go and do the business anyway.

"I played a fifth round replay at the Emirates against Arsenal for Leyton Orient. We drew at home then we managed to get a replay at the Emirates. I would say the Banbury run is bigger achievement.

"I’m the manager and there’s that little bit of pressure of feeling a burden on yourself to make good decisions. You want to make money for the football club as well. It means everything to everyone."