Some essential facts about our opponents in the FA Cup first round…
Following the news earlier tonight that we will face Concord Rangers at One Call Stadium in the FA Cup, here is a brief history about our first round opponents.Based in Canvey Island, Essex, the Beach Boys as they are affectionately known, have been one of the most progressive clubs on the non-league scene in recent years.
They play their home matches at the 3,300-capacity Aspect Arena (formerly known as Thames Road), and have achieved three promotions in the past seven years to rise from the Essex Senior League to the Vanarama South – the second-tier of non-league football.
However, this will be their first ever appearance in the first round of the FA Cup. Their previous best was reaching the fourth qualifying round in 2013/14, where they lost 3-0 to Barnet.
They are managed by Danny Cowley, who is now in his eighth season at the helm, and currently sit in 15th spot in the Vanarama South with 16 points from 12 matches (Won 4, Drawn 4, Lost 4).
Intriguingly, the Essex club booked their place in the first round with a 1-0 away victory at St Albans City, who, as many fans will remember, we beat 8-1 in the first round last year.
Concord’s FA Cup journey so far this term has been as follows:
Qualifying Round Two – Wealdstone United (H) – Won 2-0
Qualifying Round Three – Winchester City (H) – Won 3-2
Qualifying Round Four – St Albans City (a) – Won 1-0
We have one notable connection with Concord Rangers as centre-back Ryan Tafazolli spent time with them in 2011/12, shortly before his move to One Call Stadium.
To find out more about our first round opponents, visit www.concordrangersfc.com.
