Fakenham Town make the short trip to Ely City in the FA Vase on Saturday, with manager Andy Cunningham expecting nothing less than a battle.
The Robins, who have made a strong start to their season, boast an experienced squad and a notoriously tight pitch, something Cunningham believes will test his side’s ability to adapt.
Cunningham said: “It’s going to be one of those battles.
“How expansive can we be, and have we learned from last week (Soham Town Rangers), where we need to physically compete with teams?
“It’s a really good test for us, and it’ll be good to see where we’re at for future league games as well.”
The Ghosts have their eyes on more than just Saturday, though. Cunningham knows the value of a prolonged FA Vase run, recalling the buzz of their memorable journey a few years ago.
“The league looks after itself, but I’d really like to have a good run in the Vase,” he admitted.
“Get through a couple of rounds, maybe get a good home or away tie, and it does wonders for morale. Who knows how far we can go if we’ve got everyone fit and available?”
The manager also stressed the importance of taking chances, something he feels has been lacking in recent weeks.
“We need to be better at finishing,” he said.
“We created plenty on Saturday, but didn’t make enough of them count. If we’re more clinical, we can take games away from sides rather than giving them a way back in.”
Cunningham was encouraged by the reaction of his players in their last outing against Walsham le Willows, highlighting the intensity shown in the first half.
He insists that if Fakenham maintain those standards, they have the quality to overcome Ely and keep their Vase ambitions alive.
Elsewhere on Saturday, Downham Town are back in home Isthmian League North action when they host basement boys Brantham Athletic at the Memorial Field.
Heacham will be looking to restore some confidence when they entertain Yarmouth Town at Station Road in the Thurlow Nunn Premier Division
