I have faith in my team to rise to the occasion and on more than one occasion we have seen upsets in this competition so hopefully there can be one at our game tonight, says Glebe boss Gary Alexander

GLEBE manager Gary Alexander is plotting a FA Cup upset at Foxbury Avenue tonight.

The Chislehurst-based outfit host Isthmian League South East Division side Whyteleafe in the Extra Preliminary Round.

Alexander, who reached The FA Cup Fourth Round in 2006 while playing for Leyton Orient, is relishing the chance of knocking Harry Hudson’s side out at the first hurdle.

“It’s great to be back playing competitive football after a tough six months for everyone, so lots of credit has to go to the people at all of these clubs who have helped keep them running to get us to this stage,” said Alexander, 41.

“It seems weird to be starting on a Tuesday night in The FA Cup but it’s something we have to deal with to get the season underway.

“More often than not, Whyteleafe are a top 10 side in the league above, so it’s going to be a tough game.

“I’ve managed to watch them and they possess quality all over the pitch, so we will have to be at our very best to compete but I have faith in my team to rise to the occasion and on more than one occasion we have seen upsets in this competition so hopefully there can be one at our game tonight.

“The lads have been fantastic during pre-season with commitment and work ethic, having played teams from the league above and we have been able to compete with them, which is positive so it puts us in a good place for the start, which will be a tough league.”

The Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division has enticed some quality players into it this season. Charlie MacDonald, 39, has left VCD Athletic to sign for Glebe, while Jack Midson has signed for Sheppey United, while Chatham Town have signed the likes of Ryan Hayes, Andy Pugh from Dartford and goal-machine Dan Bradshaw has signed from Sheppey United.

“We have seen the quality of player that has dropped into it so the standard has really gone up but we look forward to testing ourselves against all of the sides and may the best team win,” said Alexander, whose League campaign starts with a home game against K Sports on Saturday 5 September (15:00).

“We all start on a level playing field so everyone will be dreaming at this stage but consistency will be key.  I’m sure everyone will be beating everyone so can see a real cracking season coming up so stay safe and enjoy the season.”

Visit Glebe’s website:  www.pitchero.com/clubs/glebefc

Glebe  v  Whyteleafe
The Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round
Tuesday 1 September 2020
Kick Off 7:45pm
at Foxbury Avenue, Chislehurst, Kent BR7 6SD