We are ready to give it everything but being at home is massive for us, says Tunbridge Wells boss Steve Ives

TUNBRIDGE WELLS manager Steve Ives says his side are relishing the challenge of playing higher league Uxbridge in The FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round tomorrow.

The Wells opened their Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division campaign with a victory, as Dominic Wynter-Stephens goal was enough to beat Scott Porter’s Hollands & Blair at Culverden Stadium last Saturday.

“Three points was the only objective, the clean sheet was a well-deserved bonus,” reflected Ives, whose side are in seventh-place after their first league outing.

It will be Uxbridge’s first competitive game of the season as their Isthmian League South Central Division campaign starts on Saturday 12 August.

“We’re facing a higher level opponent, with plenty of quality players, so it will be tough but being at The Den is massive for us and we are ready to give it everything,” said Ives.

“Several of their players are known to us, they have a good mix of quality and experience. It will be tough but we relish the challenge.

“There’s definitely a bit of magic attached to the competition and it’s always one everyone looks forward to.”

Luke Carpenter and assistant Ives guided Tunbridge Wells to a top-eight finish last term and Ives has set his sights higher this time out, especially with their being four play-off spots for the first time in the division this season, with one sole promotion spot.

Ives added: “We want to aim high and see where it takes us.  The play-offs give everyone an extra reason for optimism.  It’s way too early to make big statements, we are just aiming to be competitive in every game.”

Any replay will be played at Slough Town’s Arbour Park on Wednesday 9 August.  Uxbridge are currently installing a 3G pitch at their stadium.

The winners will travel to Isthmian League South Central Division side Corinthian-Casuals in The FA Cup Preliminary Round on Saturday 19 August.

Tunbridge Wells  v  Uxbridge
The Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round
Saturday 5 August 2023
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Culverden Stadium, Culverden Down, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9SG