Thurrock stages its biggest game of the season so far when Purfleet and Grays clash at the Hotel in the FA Trophy.

The facts point to a comfortable win for the Fleet, who have the best home record in the Ryman Premier with 10 wins from 13 games.

Blues possess some of the least impressive away statistics with just two victories also in 13 attempts.

But you can chuck the form book out of the window when it comes to derbies and Grays beat the title contenders at the Rec in Boxing Day's league game.

The build up to tomorrow's third round tie has been overshadowed by the snow and by Grays' director of football and financial backer Mike Woodward's bid to buy Second Division Peterborough Utd.

After meetings on Wednesday no deal was struck with struggling Posh, who have been up for sale for the past 13 months.

Two other parties are interested in buying the club and Woodward is due to have further talks next week.

He said if a deal could be struck then Grays would not suffer financially.

Both Purfleet and Blues will be without key players tomorrow.

Tresor Kandol is cup-tied, as is Grays' recent forward capture Roy Essandoh. Martin Carthy is eligible to play against the club for whom he made over 250 appearances.

Wayne Burnett and Adam Miller are in the squad after completing suspensions, while Carl Leaburn is expected to replace Essandoh.

Published Friday, January 10, 2003

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