stand-in skipper Shaun Hope says Billingham Synthonia their team spirit can help them into the semi finals of the FA Vase for the first time in their history, writes ray simpson.

The former Bishop Auckland defender will wear the captain's armband in place of suspended skipper Simon Shaw in the quarter final against Devon side Bideford tomorrow, and he said: "FA Vase fever has really come to the club - everybody is talking about the game and how well we want to do.

"There's a big buzz around the club, not just among the players, but also among the club officials and the fans. Everybody is going to be up for the game, but we must start well and get some momentum going. I really hope we'll get a good crowd behind us and cheer us on. Who knows, if there are some Northern League games postponed, then people will come along and watch us, just like they did with Crook last season when they played in the quarter final.

"The team spirit at the moment is fantastic. There are lads in the dressing room who have played in big games, such as Curtis Fleming and Simon Shaw, and there are plenty of other players who have played in pressure situations, even the younger players."

Synners have never been this far before, but Hope still is not satisfied.

"It's the biggest ever game for the club," said Hope. "I've played in the FA Youth Cup as an apprentice for Coventry, but that wasn't on the same scale as this.

"For players at our level, in terms of reaching a final, then the FA Vase is as good as it gets - and we want to go even further."