Russell aims to upset dad (From Stroud News and Journal)

Russell aims to upset dad

MATTHEW Russell will be confronted by a daunting family conflict of interest if he turns out for Forest Green in their BBC Match of the Day televised FA Cup first-round proper clash against third division Exeter City at The Lawn on Sunday (1pm).

For Russell, whose recent loan from City, has just been extended to the rest of the season, would not only find himself performing in front of a national TV audience, and a likely record Lawn crowd, but will also be taking on his own father, Exeter co-chairman, John Russell.

Matthew, 24, performed creditably in last Saturday's 2-0 home defeat by Halifax Town, is eligible to play and in the squad to faceCity in a game that will boost Forest Green's coffers by a minimum of £100,000 even if they lose.

And should they spring a major shock and reach the second round, Forest Green could collect nearly double that amount according to Marketing and Operations Manager, Colin Peake, who this week urged fans to arrive early for a game that will surely enter the annals of a club that has emerged to national prominence in just a few short years.

"It's phenomenal from that point of view as it's got to be worth £160,000 plus to us if we win and progress to the next round," said Peake, who is hoping for a record crowd of between 3000 and 4000 for the game after concluding negotiations over extended ground capacity.

"Our league position is more important in the long term, but in the short term this tie is a mega bonus for us and there are lots of possible spin-offs for us and also the local community because it's a great chance to promote the area.

"I would also like to stress how important it is for supporters to get here early, especially those who are coming for the first time, because it will be no good arriving a couple of minutes before kick-off," he said.

The gates are open from 11.30am and tickets will remain on sale from 9am to 5pm today (Wednesday) and until 7pm tomorrow and Friday. The ticket office will also be open on Saturday (10am-12noon) and unsold tickets can be purchased on Sunday (11am - 12.30pm).

Forest Green are laying on a free park and ride service to the ground for supporters leaving from the Old Market Place, Nailsworth between 11.30am and 12.40pm on Sunday.

Manager, Colin Addison should be able to choose from a fully fit squad, with defender Kevin Langan scheduled to return after injury, while keeper Steve Perrin is also expected to recover from an ankle injury.

For more Stroud sports, see this week's SNJ.