Match Preview: Long Eaton United (a)

Hinckley AFC’s first venture into the proper rounds of the FA Vase sees them travel to Midland League Premier Division side Long Eaton United tomorrow, kick off 3pm.

Carl Abbott’s side face a tricky test away at the Derbyshire outfit, who finished third in the league above last year and also won the Premier Division League Cup.

And if they are to overcome the divisional disadvantage, they will have to do it without top scorer Marco Adaggio, who serves the first of his three match ban after being controversially dismissed at Bolehall Swifts. Marcus Jackson and JJ Melligan could be involved after they joined the club in the week.

AFC arrive at this stage of the FA Vase having recorded two comprehensive victories over West Midlands Regional League sides – 5-0 at Wolves Sporting and 6-0 against Bromyard Town – and are yet to concede a goal in the competition.

After their impressive performance in the league last season, Long Eaton are one of two Midland League clubs to have been rewarded with a bye to this stage, along with Coleshill Town.

If Saturday’s match is level after 90 minutes, the match will go to extra time. If the teams still cannot be separated after extra time, a replay will take place on Tuesday 3rd November at St John’s Park, kicking off at 7-45pm.

The winners of the tie will receive £900 from The FA’s prize fund, and will progress to the Second Round on Saturday 21st November.

Long Eaton play at Grange Park, Station Road, Long Eaton, Derbyshire, NG10 2EF. The ground is approximately four miles from Junction 25 of the M1.

Adults: £6

Concessions: £3