Survival for FC Halifax Town remains main issue for Jim Harvey despite FA Trophy trail

For Jim Harvey, however, the chance to go head-to-head with the former Halifax manager, now at the helm of Gateshead, in the last eight is of secondary importance to what he considers the priority. League survival.

“I am not particularly interested in the Trophy,” said the Northern Irishman after steering his side past Chester to book that date with Aspin’s Gateshead a fortnight tomorrow.

“If we get to the final and go to Wembley, we will all enjoy the occasion.

“But my focus is keeping us safe in the league. I have said that all along.”

Had Harvey been asked to comment about prioritising the league over a chance to reach Wembley in a competition won last season by North Ferriby United on taking temporary charge in mid-November, the answer may have been different.

Halifax looked resigned to relegation back then, rock bottom and 10 points adrift of safety. Since then, though, things have changed dramatically thanks to Harvey being yet to taste defeat in 13 games and the Shaymen up to fifth bottom.

Forest Green Rovers head to West Yorkshire tomorrow to provide the stiffest test yet for the recent upturn in results.

“It will be a big challenge,” said Harvey. “But we are slowly getting better and things are ticking along nicely.”

As for Halifax taking on their old boss Aspin in the next round, Harvey added: “Our focus is the league but we have left ourselves one game away from the semi-final. Neil, the old manager, will be coming back and it will be an interesting one for him.”