ASSISTANT manager Chris Hart admits Christchurch’s immediate aim is securing FA Cup football next season with promotion now a distant dream.

Sixth-placed Priory ended the weekend 11 points shy of the Sydenhams Wessex One promotion places with seven games to play and welcome fellow contenders Tadley tonight.

The more pressing matter is extending the club’s 17-year stint in England’s most lucrative cup competition with only those finishing fourth or above guaranteed their place.

But Hart insisted his players would not fret over their bid to make the cut.

“We’re not feeling any pressure,” he said. “Of course, every club, manager, coach and player wants to be involved in the FA Cup but we have a tough run in.

“For us, it is about taking it game by game. A lot of the pressure has gone away now with the promotion picture as it is.

“You never say never but I think we have to start looking at next season in terms of going up,”

Grant Cormack is suspended and Colin Dand faces a late fitness test. Chris Senior is set to return with youngster Brandon Randall likely to retain his place after a stellar performance against New Milton on Saturday.

In the Premier Division, Verwood entertain Horndean and Bournemouth Poppies travel to Whitchurch (all 7.45).