Canvey Island soccer officials had their first taste of the Premiership big-time when they visited Aston Villa's home and admitted to being "gobsmacked" at the facilities.

Gulls will be at Villa Park on May 13 when they take on Forest Green Rovers for the most important game in their 75 year history - the FA Umbro Trophy final.

Said secretary Frances Roche: "Having seen what's available at Villa Park all I can say is that this is a 21st century final being staged in a 21st century stadium. It's fabulous."

Squeezed out - Canvey boss Jeff King (centre) gets a look-in at Villa Park last week as he's outnumbered by Forest Green counterparts David Norton (left) and Nigel Spink

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