Colchester United's boss has joined forces with Heybridge Swifts as the mid-Essex minnows bid to plot a major FA Cup shock.

U's boss Steve Whitton - no stranger to the odd giant-killing himself - has teamed up with Swifts chief Dave Greene to plan the downfall of in-form Bristol City, the first round visitors to Scraley Road tomorrow.

High-flying City, currently pushing for promotion in Division Two and boasting eight wins and a draw in their previous nine League and cup outings, were held to a 2-2 draw by the U's at Layer Road last weekend.

Four divisions currently separate the Ashton Gate club and Swifts and, more than happy to help out, Whitton has spoken at length with Greene and furnished him with a video of that match, plus other reports the U's have carried out.

Whitton said: "I had a long chat with the Swifts manager and I am very happy to help them in any way I can.

"Heybridge know they've got a massive task on their hands. City are a very good side, but the FA Cup is all about big shocks and Swifts must make the most of their huge advantage in playing the tie at home.

"I've told Dave Greene if his team sits back and lets Bristol come at them they'll swarm all over them from the back.

"Swifts have got to go for it and give it everything they've got."

Published Friday November 15, 2002

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