McGleish desperate to avoid giant-killing Updated for September 2025

Updated: 23rd September 2025

Scott McGleish says Bristol Rovers are determined to avoid an embarrassing FA Cup exit this weekend but they will take “any kind of result” against non-league minnows Corby Town in their first-round clash. 

Rovers are hoping the FA Cup can provide a welcome distraction to their League Two campaign as they sit in 16th in the table and are on a poor run of form – winning just one and losing three of their last four games. The football odds show just how poorly the side is doing.

McGleish, who reached the fifth round with Leyton Orient last season before The O's went out to Premier League giants Arsenal in a replay, said the Pirates are not underestimating their non-league opponents and, first and foremost, they must avoid defeat on Saturday.

He told the Bristol Evening Post: “We will take any kind of result on Saturday – the only thing that matters is that we are in the hat for the second round.

“It's always going to be a potential banana skin playing a non-league side because you know they are going to up their game.”

Corby, currently fifth in the Blue Square Bet North, are bound to be up for the game as they eye a shock and an unlikely place in the second round. The FA Cup betting indicates they have little chance, but they will be hoping to catch Rovers off guard.

McGleish believes the Rovers fans can play a big role in the tie and has called on them to make it difficult for the non-leaguers.

He added:

Relevant news