Fresh from what was arguably his best performance of the season in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Hartlepool United at the Galpharm Stadium, Town defender Nathan Clarke told htafc.com that the team are ready for this weekend's tricky match at Accrington Stanley in the first round of the FA Cup sponsored by E.ON.

The team never looked like conceding against the Monkey Hangers during the week and the 24-year old centre-back was understandably happy.

"As a team, we were really strong defensively." Nathan said. "We were really solid and the clean sheet was a real bonus; we've been working hard as a team and we've deserved that reward.

"The fact that we have a more settled side now when compared to the start of the season is a definite help. Everybody knows their job and week-in, week-out it definitely makes a difference."

Town now take a break from League action with this weekend's FA Cup tie and 'Clarkey' is in confident mood.

"We're still doing all the same things in preparation for this game that we do for League fixtures; the Cup is no different, we still want to win! We want to continue our good little but of form and everybody is fit and raring to go.

"Accrington are a good side. I was part of the side that went there four years ago and ended up losing, so I'm not taking anything for granted. I'd expect the game to be a little bit more physical and the pitch is definitely a tight one, but we're definitely ready for it."

Nathan played all 90 minutes of that Cup upset at the Fraser Eagle Stadium four years ago and he admits that it was not a pleasant experience.

"It's a completely new game compared to last time. The playing staff has changed considerably here since then, but having said all that it would be nice to get revenge over them. I remember being sat in the away dressing room after the game last time and hearing their music playing next door and it was gutting."

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