WINCHESTER City are running two coaches to Canvey Island next Saturday for the FA Cup third qualifying round.
The last time the Citizens made this stage of the competition was over half a century ago in 1956 – and they intend to make the most of their big day out.
Winchester came through Tuesday’s replay 1-0 at Newport IoW to learn that their next opponents would be Concord Rangers of the Vanarama Conference South.
The Essex ‘Beachboys’ – named after Concord Beach on Canvey Island – joined Gosport Borough as Conference South newcomers last season and currently reside alongside Alex Pike’s men in mid-table, having finished ninth last term.
Much as Wessex hopefuls Winchester would love to spring an upset, director of football Dave Malone says the main aim is to enjoy it. “We’ll have a good day out,” he said. “There’s no huge expectation on us, the pressure is all on them.
“If we get a result, fantastic.”
City – the Sydenhams League’s sole FA Cup survivors – turn their attention to the FA Vase second qualifying round tomorrow.
The Citizens, Vase winners of 2004, will be hot favourites to progress against Laverstock & Ford, currently 11th in Sydenhams One.
Coaches will depart for Canvey Island at 9.30am next Saturday (October 11). The cost is £20 return. Anyone interested can register on the club messageboard at http:// wcfcfans.proboards.com/thread/ 1846/ concorde-rangers-wcfc-qualifying-round
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