Bowyer warns that underdogs can bite

Blackpool were 2-0 winners against Kidderminster Harriers in the FA Cups first round

The Northamptonshire outfit come into the game buoyed by knocking out Gillingham after seeing off the League One side 4-3 in their first round replay.

That was a game which Bowyer attended and the Pool boss says he was left impressed with how the National League North side go about their business.

“I’ve watched both games,” he said. “I went myself personally to the replay and I’ve watched the original tie on the video.

“They raced into a two-goal lead in both games but got pegged back.

“They’re well coached and they play their system well. It’s going to be a difficult challenge and we’re aware of that.

“They’ve knocked a League One team out so everybody connected to our club who thinks it will anything other than a tough game, then they’re in the wrong.”

Blackpool saw off Brackley’s league rivals Kidderminster Harriers in their first round tie, easing to a comfortable 2-0 win at Bloomfield Road.

But Bowyer says Brackley, who sit in eighth position in the National League North, will pose a different type of threat.

He added: “We’ve got to go with the professional approach we had last time against Kidderminster.

“I think Kidderminster came and played their style of football, which is slightly different to Brackley’s.

“But it’s about how we go about it and what we do, both with and without the ball. We’ve got to be on the front foot and take the game to them and be as clinical as we have been when the chances come our way.

“Our organisation and shape was key against Kidderminster and we’ve got to dictate our play on the opposition, regardless of what league they’re in. We’d do the same if it was Gillingham. We’ve got to be totally professional.”

If Blackpool win today’s game they will be looking forward to drawing a money-spinning tie against a Premier League side in the third round.

Bowyer has stressed the significance of the competition to his players.

Bowyer added: “I think everybody up and down the country is telling their players how important it is.

“We have an opportunity to get into the third round where everyone will be looking forward to the excitement of the draw.

“You want to be drawn against the big boys and we’re no different, and nor are Brackley.

“That’s why the attraction of the FA Cup still lives on. You want to go and test yourself against the best.”