The three south-east Essex Ryman Division One North teams battling in the FA Trophy first round tomorrow all face tough home ties against more senior opposition.

Of the trio, East Thurrock United would appear to have the most difficult task as they host a Kingstonian side who have lost just once in 14 starts in the Ryman Premier this season.

It's not much easier for Aveley, who face a visit from Dr Martens League Premier Weymouth, while Wakering host Ford United, newcomers to the Ryman Premier this term.

At least Wakering's task could be made slightly less difficult by the fact that Ford are still very much bedding in a new team following the recent arrival of new manager Craig Edwards.

He took over at Ford after being replaced at the helm at Grays by first-team coach Mark Stimson and has been busy signing up a welter of new players since moving in.

Wakering continue to struggle for goals and tomorrow will again be minus the services of honeymooning skipper Danny Scopes.

However, Neville Hickton should be back after being unavailable for the midweek home defeat by Bromley in the Bryco Cup.

Published Friday November 1, 2002

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