Hopefully we can exploit Eastbourne United's weaknesses and come away with the win, says Bearsted boss Kevin Stevens

BEARSTEAD manager Kevin Stevens says he is look forward to tomorrow’s FA Vase First Round tie away to Eastbourne United Association.

The Bears travel down to the Sussex coast sitting in tenth-place in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division table, having picked up 15 points from their 10 league outings.

Stevens takes his side to Eastbourne United, a side that are in the top eight of the Southern Combination League Premier Division table with 21 points from 12 games.

“How can you not look forward to an FA Vase game?  It’s a tough draw against a good side but on our day, it’s a game I would hope to win,” said Stevens.

“We’ve carried out our homework as we always do on our opponents.  We’ve watched a couple of their games and also have a report on them.

“It’s backed up they are a good side but hopefully we can exploit their weaknesses and come away with the win.

“After reaching the last 32 back in the 2018-19 season, it’s a competition that I know bring a lot of interest to the club and with that, can also give you extra momentum during the season.”

When asked about the current injury situation at Honey Lane, Stevens replied: “It’s been a really busy period over the last few weeks, made a lot harder with a number of injuries to the squad.  Hopefully, four or five will return over the next week or so, which added to some very good recent signings will give us better strength in depth.

“We have a very tight squad who are committed to the club and our aspirations.  If we can have a little better luck on the injury front then we are definitely looking to have our best season yet and see where that takes us.”

Stevens said before their 2-1 home defeat to league leaders Faversham Town 10 days that he was going to send out his coach Elyon Marshall-Katung for post-match press duties, however Faversham manager Sammy Moore declined an interview.

Faversham Town were thrown out of The FA Vase after fielding an ineligible player in their 4-0 win at Horsham YMCA at the first hurdle – clubs are not allowed to play loan players in The FA Vase.

“I’d like to add Stephen that I hope everyone appreciates the time and effort you put into reporting on our games – and with that give you ten minutes after games to ask questions,” added Stevens.

Eastbourne United Association  v  Bearsted
The Isuzu FA Vase First Round
Saturday 21 October 2023
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Princes Park, The Oval, Channel View Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN22 7LN