I’m excepting a really tough game against a side who have started the season well. It is a big game for both clubs and based on their current form we probably go in as slight underdogs, says Deal Town coach Steve King

DEAL TOWN head coach Steve King says his side go into their FA Cup tie at Redhill tomorrow as slight underdogs.

Managed by Derek Hares, Deal Town kicked-off their Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division campaign with a 3-0 win at Lordswood.

Deal Town then needed a last-gasp Connor Coyne tap-in to beat 10-man Southall in the Extra Preliminary Round a couple of weeks ago.

Since then, Deal Town suffered a 3-0 home defeat to Tunbridge Wells last Saturday before bouncing back to come away from Gillingham with a 2-0 win over Hollands & Blair on Tuesday night.

“Really pleased to get the win at Hollands & Blair after Saturday’s disappointing result,” said King.

“Blair is one of the toughest places to go in the league and the boys really stood up to the challenge.

“We defended well throughout and scored at an important time. It was also pleasing to pick up another clean sheet.”

Deal Town go into their second FA Cup tie sitting in sixth-place in the table, while Surrey side Redhill are in seventh-place in the Combined Counties League Premier Division South.

They kicked off their campaign with a 2-1 home win over Colliers Wood United before beating CB Hounslow United 3-0 in The FA Cup.

Redhill went down to a 2-0 home defeat to much-fancied side Walton & Hersham but bounced back with an impressive 5-0 win over AFC Croydon Athletic at Mayfield Stadium on Tuesday night.

“I’m excepting a really tough game against a side who have started the season well.  It is a big game for both clubs and based on their current form we probably go in as slight underdogs,” said King.

“They did well in their league’s Lockdown Tournament and has a great win against AFC Croydon Athletic on Tuesday.

“We have done well in cups in recent years, especially the FA Vase and we go into the game confident we can get the win.

“We have done our homework and will be prepared. However, we will be focusing on our own performance and looking to reach the levels we know we are capable of.”

Deal Town scooped £1,125 after beating Southall last time out and there is another £1,444 up for grabs tomorrow.

“It is an honour to be involved and it would be nice to progress again and see what the draw brings.  From a club point of view the prize money is always helpful and it gives the club a chance to put ourselves on the map if we can progress again,” added King.

Visit Deal Town’s website: www.dealtownfc.co.uk

Redhill  v  Deal Town
The Emirates FA Cup Preliminary Round
Saturday 21 August 2021
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Kiln Brow, Three Arch Road, Redhill, Surrey RH1 5AE