THE ROAD TO WEMBLEY: It's going to be a goalscoring thriller, predict Folkestone - EXCLUSIVE

Folkestone Invicta secretary Mr Neil Pilcher has issued a rallying cry to local football fans to get themselves to Cheriton Road on Saturday to cheer the club into the first round proper of the FA Cup, writes Stephen McCartney.

Invicta are just one win away from a potential clash against former Wembley winners Leeds United and Nottingham Forest.

It’s two years since Adam Flanagan, now with Dartford, scored Invicta’s goal in their first round 2-1 defeat at Chester City.

And Mr Pilcher is pleased that the club have been drawn against fellow Ryman Premier League side Billericay Town, the only side to have been beaten at Cheriton Road in the league so far this term.

“Before the fourth qualifying round draw was made, I think the general consensus was a home draw, or maybe away in our case!, against a club at a similar level would give us a chance to progress to the first round proper for the second time in three seasons,” Mr Pilcher said EXCLUSIVELY to www.kentishfootball.co.uk.

“I am sure they will be looking at it in exactly the same positive way and to be honest the odds of 9/4 for the draw look quite generous to me.”

But fans that do flock through the turnstiles at the Buzzlines Stadium on Saturday, should receive value for money.

“Games against the Essex club, who I have always regarded as one of the best footballing sides in the Ryman Premier League, have recently been very close and provided plenty of goalmouth action and goals,” said Mr Pilcher.

“For example, this season we have beaten them 3-2 at home in the league, whilst last season they won 3-2 at the Buzzlines Stadium in the FA Trophy, and we shared the points following a 3-3 draw in the league.

“Also, they are quite a well supported club and so I would have expected with their away support.

“Our usual 300 plus a few neutrals or floating supporters we would get an attendance close to the 800 mark, which, shared 50/50, will of course be valuable income for both clubs.

“Although the main aim prize will go to the victors with £10,000 in FA prize money, plus of course the chance of a big game in the first round proper with sides such as Leeds United and Nottingham Forest in the hat.

“Money like this is invaluable to clubs at our level as it can set you up for the season.

“Our former assistant manager Paul Parker is helping with the (first round) draw so let’s hope if we do get through, he does us a favour!

“It is not just the money though, although our chairman and financial director may disagree, as two years ago we all had a fantastic weekend in Chester and I know the players enjoyed being in the national limelight with a brief appearance on Match of the Day and they would love to get there again.

“And with everyone fit and raring to go, I know they will give it their best shot.”

Folkestone Invicta have kept their usual admission prices for the game; £8 (adults), £4 (concessions).

Visit Folkestone Invicta’s website: www.folkestoneinvicta.co.uk

Folkestone Invicta v Billericay Town
FA Cup (Sponsored by E.ON) Fourth Qualifying Round
Saturday 27^th October 2007
Kick Off 3:00pm
At Buzzlines Stadium, Cheriton Road, Folkestone, Kent CT19 5JU