Colchester United journey to Swindon Town tomorrow celebrating a newly-won jackpot of £77,500.
The richly-deserved windfall is the U's prize for reaching the FA Cup fourth round £12,500 (first round winners); £15,000 (second); £50,000 (third).
Phil Parkinson
But the big question is - will ambitious young Layer Road manager Phil Parkinson get his hands on any of the cash to strengthen his already highly-talented squad?
Parkinson refused to be drawn by the prospect, saying only: "It's a fantastic bonus for the club and added to other cash generated from our run in the LDV Vans Trophy, the picture is looking pretty rosy."
And there could be a lot more to come with a further £75,000 on the line if victory is completed over Nationwide League First Division Coventry City in the fourth round.
But the tie against the Sky Blues in eight day's time could not be further from the U's boss' mind as he prepares his injury and suspension-hit squad for tomorrow's trip to Wiltshire to play Swindon at the County Ground.
"This game and our LDV area semi-final at Northampton next Tuesday are far bigger than the Coventry match right now," said Parkinson.
"Swindon is all we are focused on at this time. They're a very good side, boasting some fine players, and I'm not at all surprised to see they are currently riding high in seventh place."
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Published Friday January 16, 2004
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