However the club were already in a cash crisis, having to rely on donations from supporters to pay the players and travel to away games.
The third round saw United face Norwich City at the Pilot Field in front of 12,727, a record that still stands, the game ended 3–3.
The previous manager, Tim Kelly, was contracted until June 1962, however by the time Ballard was brought in, the club were bottom of the league.
No football was played between Boxing day and early March 1963, due to the severe winter, however they remained well-place for promotion.
Ted Ballard retired that summer to run a pub and Sid Bishop was brought in as manager, however, United were relegated back to the first division.
On the pitch the club were enjoying a successful spell, however the high standard of football was reflected in the players wage bill and Sillett being offered an improved contract by new chairman Bernard Sealy.
Low income and high out-goings led to tension in the boardroom and Sealy was sacked as chairman, with Mick Piper taking his place.
By Mid-April the club had managed to pay off a £5,000 debt to the council and there were plans to sell the Squash Complex for £75,000.
On 6 June 1985 the directors agreed to surrender the Pilot Field lease at a meeting in the town hall.