We want to test ourselves against the big boys of non-league and above, says Tunbridge Wells boss Jason Bourne

TUNBRIDGE WELLS manager Jason Bourne says his team are in a good place going into Saturday’s FA Cup opener.

 

Last season was one of struggle for Bourne in his first as manager of his home-town club and they finished in a disappointing bottom six in the Southern Counties East Football League.

The Wells’ host Eastbourne United in The FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round at Culverden Stadium on Saturday, looking to get their campaign off to a good start.

Eastbourne United finished in tenth-place in the Southern Combination League (the artist formerly known as the Sussex County League) last season.

“We start the season in a good place, having worked very hard, played strong opposition and acquired some very accomplished players, but most importantly for me we kept hold of the nucleus that finished the season so well for us,” said Bourne.

“Eastbourne United themselves have had a good pre-season programme that has given them a lot of optimism going into the game.

“The FA Cup is of course a very special competition where we will go as far as possible and see where that takes us.

“We are all fully aware that this provides all non-league clubs with a good revenue but as players want to test ourselves against the big boys of non-league and above.

“Stapes (Mark Stapley) knows first-hand the glamor of the Cup run when he took Hastings to the Second Round eventually losing to Middlesbrough at the Riverside.

“We’re pleased for a home draw as there’s no place like it at this level for atmosphere and support.

“Ultimately this game is our first competitive one of the season and whatever anyone thinks about it being in the FA Cup, we want to continue building momentum.”

Visit Tunbridge Wells’ website:  www.tunbridgewellsfc.com

Tunbridge Wells  v  Eastbourne United
The Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round
Saturday 6^th August 2016
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Culverden Stadium, Culverden Down, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 9SG