25thsept03

Managers expect tough cup encounter
Bromley face Dartford at the Clive Christian Stadium in Hayes Lane on Saturday in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round and both managers are expecting a tough encounter, writes Stephen McCartney.

Dartford manager Tommy Sampson, who skippered Bromley for two seasons in the eighties said: "The game is going to be very difficult and I'd rather be at home. 

"It's one of those ties, with not an awful lot between both sides.  We play a different type of football in the Dr Martens League and Saturday's game at Bromley will come down to good defending.  Both sides can score goals, but whoever has the best defence will win the game."

If Sampson's comments are correct, Bromley should be favourites to progress as they have won their last three games by a 1-0 scoreline.

Bromley were reduced to ten men in two of those matches.  They beat Ashford Town 1-0 in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round replay after South African defender Steve Potterill was sent off for a second bookable offence with
twenty-six minutes left on the clock.

They booked their place in the next round after Joe Wade's 81st minute free kick from the edge of the Ashford Town penalty area found the back of the net.

After having central defender Joe Vines sent off after 20 minutes against Tooting & Mitcham United at Hayes Lane last Tuesday, Adolph Amoako's 52nd minute penalty gave Bromley three Ryman League Division One South points against their rivals.

Sandwiched between was another 1-0 win, at Corinthian-Casuals last Saturday when Tony Reid scored his first goal for Bromley finding the net after eighteen minutes.

Bromley manager Stuart McIntyre said: "Saturday's game against Dartford will be another tough encounter.  Lots of Tommy Sampson's players are well known to us and they will want to do well."

Bromley are expecting a crowd of over 400 for the clash.  Admission prices are £7 (adults) and £4 (concessions)

If a replay is required it will take place at Gravesend & Northfleet FC, Stonebridge Road, Northfleet next Tuesday 30 September, 7.45pm.

Bromley vs Dartford, FA Cup Second Qualifying Round, Saturday 27 September 2003, 3pm @ The Clive Christian Stadium, Hayes Lane, Bromley.