We know we will need to go to Broadbridge Heath and perform if we are to progress any further in this competition, says AFC Croydon Athletic boss Kevin Rayner

AFC CROYDON ATHLETIC manager Kevin Rayner says his side must perform if they are to get past Broadbridge Heath in The FA Vase tomorrow.

The Rams climbed up to second-place in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division with a 3-2 home win over Tunbridge Wells on Tuesday night.

Rayner has seen his side claim five wins and a draw from their opening eight league games and are level on points with surprise leaders Lordswood, although Rayner’s side do have a game in hand.

“Our last game saw us pick up three points in a performance that was not one of our best this year,” admitted Rayner.

“Tunbridge Wells were better than us for the first hour and we only really showed some form for the last 20 minutes, which really won us the game.

“We had to change a couple of players from the Cray Valley win but we seemed a bit flat early and Tunbridge Wells failed to take advantage.

“No sooner had we gone in front we were behind after we conceded two slapstick goals almost immediately.

“That said, the spirit in the squad is great and the team showed great battling qualities to win the game and take all the points.

“We have good momentum at the moment after win number five on the bounce and this puts us in good frame of mind as we travel to Broadbridge Heath in an FA Vase tie this weekend.”

Broadbridge Heath are in tenth-place in the Southern Combination League Premier with three wins and a draw from their opening seven games, going into the Second Qualifying Round tie.

“Broadbridge Heath are a good side and have started the season well. We know we will need to go there and perform if we are to progress any further in this competition,” said Rayner.

“We have one or two missing but again the squad is good enough to go there and compete.

“I would think that both club’s would fancy they have a chance of getting through and I would expect it to be a decent game.

“I will be hoping we can keep in this competition a bit longer this year.”

Visit AFC Croydon Athletic’s website: www.pitchero.com/clubs/afccroydonathletic

Broadbridge Heath  v  AFC Croydon Athletic
The Buildbase FA Vase Second Qualifying Round
Saturday 23^rd September 2017
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Broadbridge Heath Leisure Centre, Wickhurst Lane, Broadbridge Heath, West Sussex RH12 3YS