Despite disappointment at having to switch the game from its original date, Billericay Town will make certain that Division Three opponents Wingate and Finchley get a big welcome for tonight's (Tuesday's) FA Cup tie at New Lodge.

The second qualifying round tie could not be played last weekend as it was the Jewish New Year and the visiting club are deeply steeped in that religion.

Said Town chairman Rod Moore: "While respecting the opposition's religious beliefs we were disappointed at our fans missing out on what is a traditional FA Cup weekend, but all that is forgotten now. Wingate and Finchley players, officials and fans will be given the traditional Billericay welcome at New Lodge tonight.

"Until the past couple of seasons the two clubs have always arranged pre-season friendlies with each other and we're sure the good relations of the past will continue tonight and in the future."

Manager Gary Calder admitted: "Strangely the switch from last Saturday to tonight might ultimately have done us a favour. It's allowed some of our players who were carrying knocks after a heavy schedule of two matches a week since August extra-time to recover."

Having said that, Calder has three players - Kevin Jordan, Gary Henty and Russell Penn - with no more than a 50-50 chance of being fit for tonight's encounter, which will see the winners away to Bishop's Stortford in the third round qualifying on Saturday week.

Calder admitted: "As the Premier Division side we would be favourites on paper to not only win tonight but also at Stortford, but in the FA Cup the form book can often be throw out of the window.

"A good run in the competition would be a great boost for us and our fabulous fans, who have supported us so magnificently this season."

Calder will continue talks later this week with a top Nationwide Conference front runner-up he's hoping to bring to the club. Barnet wide man Tony Webster and speedy front runner Ian Hilaire are both having trials and, providing tonight's encounter does not end in a draw making a replay necessary, Calder hopes to arrange a special match for next week.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.